Signs and Symptoms

• Bone tumors usually begin with a hard lump on one of the longer bones of the skeleton. There may be evidence of swelling and pain at the site. Lameness in the limb connected with the lump is a very common symptom. In dogs, tumors may be more prevalent in the front limbs. In cats, however, hind limbs are more commonly involved. Bone disease tends to occur in middle-aged or older dogs. It is usually the large or giant breeds of dogs that are affected by bone tumors. In cats, it is those of more advanced age that are usually affected by bone tumors.
  
  

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis for metastatic bone disease is done by physical examination, x-ray, blood tests, CT scan, bone scan and biopsy. Some or all of these tests may be done to see the extent of the disease's progression, and will help determine effective treatment for the best outcome.
  
  

Treatment

• For some cases, surgery to remove the lump will be sufficient, but others may require amputation of the limb. More attempts at surgery to preserve the limb of the animal are being done, when possible. Radiation and chemotherapy may also be indicated both as curative and as palliative treatment. It is most important for your veterinarian to be made aware of your pet's ongoing condition so that pain medications can be prescribed to keep the animal comfortable.
  
  

Prognosis

• Prognosis in metastatic bone disease is generally not favorable. Aggressive treatment may halt the spread of cancer to extend the life of the animal, but more often, tumors return and cases have an unfavorable outcome. It is important to see a vet as soon as any unusual lump or lameness occurs to provide the earliest intervention to prevent the spread of the disease, if possible.
  
  

Post-Surgery Care

• Dogs usually adapt well to life with a missing limb, if that is the surgery your veterinarian recommends. It is important to see that your pet gets good nutrition and moderate exercise after surgery, and is carefully monitored for the appearance of other lesions.