Tumors must be at least 1 cm3 (1 gram) to be clinically detectable. At that time they contain 109 cells. If a tumor develops from a single malignantly transformed cell, it takes only 30 doublings to attain 1-gram size.
The increase from 1 gram to 1 kilogram takes only 10 doublings.
Most human tumors are thought to double every two months. Animal tumors double even faster.
Normal cells can only undergo a limited number of cell doublings before the genetic makeup of the cell becomes damaged and they `commit suicide` (apoptosis).
In contrast, tumor cells are immortal. Cells located in the advancing edge of a tumor have more metastatic potential than the cells in the center.
It is essential that correct oncologic surgical techniques are used and that the surgeon has an adequate knowledge of the tumor type and behavior.
The signalment and patient history may contribute in formation about the potential cause or histologic type of tumor.
A full physical examination should be performed on every cancer patient, including measurement of the mass, gentle palpation to determine consistency and attachment to deeper tissues and evaluation of local and distant lymph nodes. Three-view (right and left lateral and ventrodorsal) thoracic radiographs, complete blood count, biochemical profile and urinalysis are the minimum database for each patient.
Some neoplastic conditions are associated with paraneoplastic syndromes.
Consideration must be made to stabilize a patient with tumor-associated intercurrent disease before surgery to reduce the risk of the morbidity and mortality associated with these syndromes.
Hypercalcemia:
Lymphosarcoma
Anal sac adenocarcinoma
Multiple myeloma
Hypoglycemia:
Insulinoma
Hepatocellular carcinoma
Sarcomas (Leiomyosarcoma)
Thrombocytopenia, DIC:
Hemangiosarcoma
Thyroid carcinoma
Inflammatory mammary gland carcinoma
Source: www.dvmnewsmagazine.com/dvm/
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