Dr Bollenbeck found a mass growing inside this dog's eye (the pink circular mass in the center of the picture). This 10 year old is a great companion and belongs to one of our best clients. The location of the mass was a little unusual but the appearance strongly suggested cancer. After an extensive search to make sure that there were no other tumors elsewhere, a decision had to be made about surgery. Should the tumor be removed (which means removing the eye), or should we watch the mass to see if it grows? Fearing that further growth might cause it to spread outside the eye, the decision was made to remove it. Good thing we did, as the biopsy revealed a carcinoma. A difficult decision but the right one for this dog's long term health.
This case highlights a unique aspect of veterinary medicine. Our patients experience little psychological stress from the loss of eyes, ears, limbs, teeth, testicles or ovaries. As dog and cat lovers, we are often affected more by the resulting change than they are. Pets, if they are pain-free and can function socially within the family, live pretty contentedly regardless of their appearance. Just look how happy Pugs are!
I'm sorry to be so crass, but I must ask: what was the of that treatment?
ReplyDeleteMy housemate of 12 years has a similar growth.