Liver Cancer, or Inflammation? Which Tests Before a Liver Biopsy?
We're sorry you're going through so much uncertainty. It's common for a liver mass to be hard to label before a biopsy. Ultrasound and blood tests can't always tell cancer from inflammation or benign growths, and in one study about a quarter of liver masses that were removed turned out not to be cancer.
A liver biopsy is the right next step for a definite answer. Before a biopsy, vets check how well a dog's blood clots, usually with a platelet count, fibrinogen, a red cell count (PCV) and clotting times (PT and aPTT). Biopsies should include enough tissue from more than one area, and vets often also send samples for bacterial culture and copper measurement to look for causes of inflammation.
Your vet can also discuss whether CT imaging or a referral to a veterinary internal medicine specialist or oncologist would help. Bring your records, and write down your questions before the appointment.
See liver cancer in dogs and liver disease in dogs.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.
