A cat with cutaneous MCT (image source: Henry & Herrera, 2012).
Feline Mast Cell Tumors
Mast cell tumors (MCTs) in cats are an important concern in veterinary practice and feline oncology due to the fact that MCTs are the most prevalent type of splenic tumor and the second most common skin tumor in these domestic animals. This page is about MCTs, their types, clinical signs and symptoms, causes and risk factors, diagnosis, treatment options, and prognosis.
Types of Mast Cell Tumors
Cutaneous MCTs
Cutaneous or skin MCTs are tumors found in the skin and are characterized by plaques or raised bumps on this protective organ. They are commonly located in on the cats’ head, neck and trunk. Cutaneous MCTs are further subdivided into mastocytic and atypical forms (Henry & Herrera, 2012).
Gastrointestinal MCTs
This type of MCTs mainly develop in the intestines and tends to progress to more severe systemic conditions. It is the third most prevalent intestinal tumor in cats. It is locally aggressive and exhibits a comparably high rate of metastasis (Tucker, 2022).
Visceral MCTs
Fifty per cent of all feline mast cell tumors are visceral MCTs. They affect the spleen, and other internal organs and they may be associated with secondary cutaneous lesions. A splenectomy can confer long-term survival for cats with a median survival time of 12-19 months (Henry & Herrera, 2012).
Clinical Signs and Symptoms
Clinical manifestations of MCTs depend on the type and location of the tumors. In cutaneous MCTs, signs and symptoms include open sores or ulceration on the skin, plaques or hairless lumps, and intense itching with hair loss. Visceral MCTs are characterized by poor appetite, vomiting and weight loss. Finally, cats with intestinal MCTs display vomiting, diarrhea, and blood in stools (Medical Oncology: Feline Mast Cell Tumors, n.d.).
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact causes of MCTs are still under investigation but there are indications that genetic and environmental factors can play a role in their development. For example, cutaneous MCTs have been found to be prevalent among specific breeds such as Siamese cats. Moreover, KIT gene mutations have been associated with feline MCT development (Blackwood, 2015).
Diagnosis
Clinical Examination
Looking for signs and symptoms such as lumps, vomiting and weight loss, veterinarians can assess for suspected MCTs.
Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA)
FNA involves the use of a sterile needle to obtain cells for oncological investigations. Under a microscope, MCTs can be distinguished from healthy mast cells.
Biopsy
Inconclusive results using FNA may require use of more stringent tests like a biopsy. Biopsies are performed to excise larger tissue samples for more detailed examinations to establish the type and aggressiveness of a suspected tumor.
Imaging and Blood Tests
X-rays, ultrasound, urinalysis, blood work and other diagnostics may be done to evaluate organ function and to test for metastasis for MCTs that involve internal organs.
Treatment
Treatment
Surgical removal is the first option for cutaneous MCTs and most cats with this type of tumor respond well. Chemotherapy – such as the use of lomustine – is an option when surgical removal is not recommended. Resurgence of surgically removed MCTs may require radiation therapy. Symptoms can be relieved using antihistamines and other drugs for supportive care.
Prognosis
Cutaneous MCTs generally have good prognosis after surgery, including low recurrence rates. Visceral MCTs have poorer prognosis with a post-treatment average survival time of 12 months.
Available Services for
Characterization
FACS (fluorescence-activated cell sorting)
qPCR (quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction)
RNAseq (RNA sequencing)
Sterility
HLA (human leukocyte antigen) typing
More on request
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References
Henry, C., & Herrera, C. (2013). Mast cell tumors in cats: clinical update and possible new treatment avenues. Journal of feline medicine and surgery, 15(1), 41–47. https://doi.org/10.1177/1098612X12470343
Medical oncology: Feline mast cell tumors. (n.d.). Veterinary Hospital. https://hospital.cvm.ncsu.edu/services/small-animals/cancer-oncology/oncology/medical-oncology-feline-mast-cell-tumors/
Tucker, S. M., Croce, A., Brenseke, B., Spencer, A., Mastromauro, M., Birkenheuer, A. J., & Watanabe, T. T. N. (2022). Pathology in practice. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 259(S2), 1–4. https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.21.05.0244
