Soft Tissue Sarcomas in Pets
Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are a group of malignant tumors that arise from connective tissues such as fat, muscle, nerves, and blood vessels. Though they may appear as slow-growing lumps under the skin, many STSs are invasive and can be challenging to treat if not caught early.
At Central Texas Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Hospital (CTVSEH), our expert oncology and surgical teams provide individualized treatment plans and compassionate support for pets diagnosed with soft tissue sarcomas.
What Are Soft Tissue Sarcomas?
Soft tissue sarcomas encompass a wide variety of tumor types, including:
- Fibrosarcoma
- Hemangiopericytoma
- Liposarcoma
- Nerve sheath tumors
- Myxosarcoma
- Undifferentiated sarcoma
These tumors tend to infiltrate surrounding tissues, making complete surgical removal essential for long-term control.
Common Locations
- Limbs and trunk (under the skin or within muscle layers)
- Around joints or nerves
- Occasionally in the abdominal cavity or chest
Signs & Symptoms
STS often present as firm, non-painful masses beneath the skin. They may go unnoticed for weeks or months. Symptoms can include:
- A lump or swelling that grows slowly over time
- Difficulty moving if near a joint or muscle
- Lameness or discomfort in later stages
- Ulceration of the skin (rare)
Not all lumps are cancerous, but any persistent or enlarging mass should be evaluated by a veterinarian.
Diagnosis at CTVSEH
At CTVSEH, we use advanced diagnostic tools to determine if the mass is a sarcoma and to guide treatment decisions:
- Fine needle aspirate (FNA) to examine cell type
- Biopsy and histopathology for definitive diagnosis and tumor grading
- CT scan for surgical planning and assessing depth or invasion
- Chest radiographs and abdominal ultrasound to check for metastasis
- MRI (if necessary) for tumors near the spine or brain
Treatment Options
Treatment for soft tissue sarcoma depends on tumor size, location, and grade. Our goal is to completely remove or manage the tumor while preserving quality of life.
1. Surgical Removal
Surgery is the primary treatment for most STSs. Our board-certified surgeons focus on achieving wide margins to minimize recurrence. Depending on the tumor’s location, reconstructive techniques may be needed.
2. Radiation Therapy
Radiation is often used:
- After surgery to destroy microscopic residual cells
- Before surgery to shrink large tumors
- As primary therapy for non-resectable tumors
We collaborate with local radiation centers to coordinate care if needed.
3. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy may be recommended for:
- High-grade or aggressive tumors
- Tumors with metastatic potential
- Cases where surgery or radiation isn’t feasible
Your oncologist will tailor a safe and effective protocol for your pet.
Why Choose CTVSEH?
At Central Texas Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Hospital, our multi-disciplinary approach means your pet receives seamless care from diagnosis through treatment. We treat every patient with the same compassion and attention we would give our own pets.
What Sets Us Apart:
- Board-certified veterinary oncologists and surgeons
- Advanced imaging and diagnostics (CT, ultrasound, MRI)
- In-house chemotherapy and surgical suites
- Personalized care plans for each pet
- 24/7 emergency services and post-op support
Schedule a Consultation
If your pet has a lump or has been diagnosed with a soft tissue sarcoma, we’re here to help.
📍 Visit us online: www.ctvseh.com
📞 Call: (512) 892-9038
