What Is Histopathology?
Histopathology is the examination of tissue under a microscope to help determine the exact nature of a lump or growth.
When a lump is surgically removed, it can be sent to a specialised laboratory where a veterinary pathologist carefully analyses the tissue. This allows us to understand what the lump is and whether any further treatment or monitoring is required.
Histopathology provides more detailed and reliable information than visual assessment alone and is an important part of guiding ongoing care.
Why Is Histopathology Recommended?
Not all lumps can be accurately identified just by looking at them or feeling them.
Even when a lump appears benign, histopathology helps to:
• confirm the diagnosis
• determine whether the lump is benign or malignant
• assess whether it has been completely removed
• guide whether any further treatment or monitoring is needed
In many cases, histopathology provides reassurance. In others, it helps us plan the most appropriate next steps for your dog.
What Happens to the Sample?
After removal, the lump is placed in a special preservative solution and sent to a veterinary laboratory.
There, the tissue is:
• processed and prepared into thin sections
• examined under a microscope by a veterinary pathologist
• assessed for cell type, behaviour, and margins
A detailed report is then sent back to our clinic, usually within several days.
We will contact you once the results are available and discuss what they mean for your dog.
Common Types of Lumps in Dogs
Many different types of lumps can occur in dogs. Some of the more common findings include:
Lipomas (Fatty Lumps)
These are benign lumps made up of fat cells. They are very common, especially in older dogs, and are often soft and slow growing.
Sebaceous Cysts
These are benign lumps associated with blocked hair follicles or skin glands. They can sometimes rupture or become inflamed.
Mast Cell Tumours
These are one of the more common skin tumours in dogs. Their behaviour can vary from relatively mild to more aggressive, which is why histopathology is important.
Histiocytomas
Often seen in younger dogs, these are typically benign lumps that may regress on their own.
Soft Tissue Sarcomas
A group of tumours that can vary in behaviour. Some are slow growing, while others may require more careful management.
Other Findings
There are many other types of lumps, including inflammatory lesions, benign growths, and less common tumour types. Each diagnosis is interpreted individually.
What Do the Results Mean?
Histopathology results help guide what happens next and allow us to make informed decisions based on your dog’s individual diagnosis.
In many cases, results confirm that a lump is benign and no further treatment is required. Ongoing monitoring may be recommended, but often this simply involves checking the area during routine visits.
In some cases, the report may indicate that:
• the lump has been completely removed with clean margins
• the lump may require monitoring for regrowth
• further treatment or investigation may be beneficial
For a smaller number of cases, particularly where more complex or malignant tumours are identified, additional treatment options may be discussed. These can include:
• further surgery to achieve wider margins
• referral to a specialist for advanced care
• chemotherapy or other medical management
• ongoing monitoring and supportive care
Not all diagnoses require further treatment, and when additional care is recommended, this is always discussed in a clear and supportive way.
Our team will explain your dog’s results in practical terms, what they mean, and what options are available, so you can make informed decisions that feel right for your dog and your family.
A Thoughtful, Individual Approach
Every dog and every lump is different.
Histopathology allows us to move beyond guesswork and make informed decisions based on accurate information, while continuing to prioritise your dog’s comfort and wellbeing.
If you have any questions about histopathology or whether it is recommended for your dog, our team is always happy to guide you.