Lipoma
These are soft round bumps of movable fatty deposits under the skin. They do not cause pain or irritation, infection or hair loss. Generally the way they are found is through the owner patting or grooming the pet.
The lipoma will generally grow slowly and remain in one place; they will only cause problems if they are large and or interfere with movement.
It is generally the older pet who will develop a lipoma. Labradors and overweight animals tend to have an increased incidence of lipomas.
Diagnosis
- Palpation – feeling and noting the size and location.
- Fine Needle Aspirate (FNA). This is the removal of some of the cells from the lump by a needle and looked at under the microscope to ensure it is a lipoma.
- Biopsy-A small amount of tissue is taken and sent to the lab for confirmation. It is important to ensure that all lumps and bumps that appear on the pet are checked by the veterinarian to ensure that it is a lipoma and not a malignant tumour.
Treatment
Lipomas are generally not removed from the pet. We will remove them, however, if they are in a position on the body that may limit movement or cause discomfort.
It is important that you and your pet are informed of the potential problems that pertain to your pet/breed; this enables a happy and healthy life for your pet. Your veterinarian can help you with the right course of action and wellness plan, to maintain your pet’s health.