BIOPSIES

There are several ways to perform a biopsy. The quickest way is an FNA biopsy, a fine needle aspirate. This involves a needle being inserted and a few cells being aspirated from the lesions. These cells are transferred onto a slide to be stained and examined under the microscope. In some cases, this can be performed in the clinic, but your vet may recommend sending the samples to an external lab for reviewing by a pathologist.

Other types of biopsies involve punch- or wedge resections. For this procedure your pet will require sedation and a local- or full anaesthetic, depending on the location of the lesion. A small part of the lump or lesion will be cut and preserved, prior to sending to an external lab for histopathology. With the structure of the lesion intact, the results of excisional biopsies are generally more reliable than an FNA.  

Cytology and histopathology is highly recommended for suspected cancers and certain skin conditions, as it will help your vet create a better treatment plan for your pet.