All cells in the body are specialised in type & function & their growth is tightly regulated by the body. The mechanisms that control cell division & consequently tissue growth may malfunction due to a number of factors:

•    physical trauma or injury

•    chemical poisoning

•    UV light radiation

•    effects of carcinogenic drugs

•    radioactive poisoning

•    age-related malfunction of control mechanisms

•    hormonal stimulation

When control of growth fails within the body, tumours often develop. They may be isolated & harmless ( benign ) or may be invasive ( malignant ) with a potential to spread ( metastasise ).

Swellings found within the body may not necessarily be tumours. Instead, they may be cysts, abscesses, inflammatory foci or mineral deposits. Some may be identified by simple veterinary examination, but many require further investigation to be certain of diagnosis. Techniques used routinely to investigate abnormal masses include:

•    ultrasound scanning

•    radiography

•    haematology & biochemistry blood screening

•    surgical biopsy with histopathological investigation

Although the other tests are useful in characterising the swelling & identifying tissues & organs involved, the most accurate results are obtained with histopatholgy. This procedure involves specialist examination of tissue sections that have been removed surgically under anaesthesia.

Histopathological investigation provides the following information:

•  identification of tissue type

•  confirmation of cancer benign or malignant

•  growth rate of the tumour or mitotic index

•  confirmation of margin of safety where excision has been performed

•  suggested treatments that might be effective

•  prognosis prior to or following surgical removal

Such information is invaluable when deciding a suitable treatment programme. It is also very helpful in providing an objective prognosis or long term view.

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