As we move into June, pet owners may start to notice various lumps and bumps on their furry companions. It’s natural to feel concerned when discovering an unusual growth, and many pet owners often wonder, “What is this lump, and how do I know if it’s something serious?”
At Whiskers Vets, we’re here to explain the process of fine needle aspiration and its importance in diagnosing these abnormalities.
What is a Fine Needle Aspirate and Why Does My Vet Want to Take One?
Despite what some may claim, it is impossible to determine the nature of a lump solely by feeling it. While our experienced veterinary team can make educated guesses based on your pet’s age, breed, and the mass’s location, a definitive diagnosis requires cytology – examining cells under a microscope. This process allows us to identify whether the cells are normal or if they show signs of potential malignancy, helping us decide the best course of action for your pet.
How is a Fine Needle Aspirate Performed?
To obtain a sample of cells for examination, we perform a fine needle aspirate biopsy. During this procedure, a thin needle is inserted into the lump or swelling, redirected several times, and the cells are transferred onto a microscope slide with a syringe full of air. It’s almost like receiving an injection in reverse.
Most pets experience only momentary discomfort during the needle insertion, similar to receiving a vaccination, and they typically recover quickly. Bleeding from the site may occur, but don’t be alarmed; it’s normal. Some lumps may bleed more than others, and in such cases, your vet may apply a bandage to assist with this.
The beauty of the fine needle aspirate method is that it can be performed swiftly during a consultation, eliminating the need for sedation or general anaesthesia. However, the diagnostic value of the sample depends on the number of cells collected. Some lesions readily shed cells, allowing for a diagnosis with just one needle prick, while others, such as fibrous tissue or bone, may not yield enough material. In cases where cytology is inconclusive, your vet may recommend surgical removal of all or part of the lesion (usually under general anaesthesia) for histology (tissue analysis), providing a clearer diagnosis.
When Will I Hear About the Results?
Certain conditions are straightforward and can be identified in-house. However, for most samples, we send them to an external laboratory, where a pathologist will analyse them and provide a report. Typically, results are available within a week.
Final Thoughts
Noticing lumps and bumps on your pet can be worrying, but understanding the process of fine needle aspiration can help alleviate some of that anxiety. At Whiskers Vets, we are dedicated to providing thorough examinations and clear explanations to ensure that you and your pet feel supported every step of the way. If you notice any unusual growths on your pet, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for an appointment. You can book an appointment online here, or give our friendly team a call on 01626 835002.
