How could my dog's splenic cancer be so sudden and go undetected?

Question

Our dog had a splenic mass that caused her to collapse. The vet said it was likely a bad form of cancer and recommended euthanasia due to a short life expectancy after surgery. There was some fluid in the lungs too. She had a routine check-up 3 months prior why wasn’t this caught? I did not notice any signs prior to her collapse. We went for a long walk the day before. How long was she likely sick with cancer for before it started bleeding? Was she in a lot of pain? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 35 lbs

Dr. Strydom, DVM · Accepted Answer

I'm sorry that this happened but unfortunately, these types of cancers come on quickly and it is very likely there was no sign of it 3 months ago. Please don't put blame on your vet. I'm sure they are as heartbroken as you. Dogs are very good about hiding illness until it is too late. This same thing happened with my own dog. I had done bloodwork, x-rays and an abdominal ultrasound as routine screening and then three months later he passed from a splenic hemangiosarcoma that had spread to his whole body, brain and spinal cord. He was only a bit lethargic for two days prior to collapse but was otherwise pretty normal. It is just unfortunate. The tumor on the spleen is probably uncomfortable but not necessarily painful but, of course, no one knows for sure. There is no way to know when it came on or how long she was sick before the bleeding started. My guess would be a couple of weeks. Again, I am very sorry for your loss but this is no one's fault - it is just the nature of a living being.

How could my dog's splenic cancer be so sudden and go undetected?

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