Cancer occurs when body cells replicate at an abnormally fast and chaotic rate and form a mass known as a tumor. According to The Veterinary Cancer Society, cancer is the leading cause of death in 47% of dogs and 32% of cats. There are many factors that influence the development of cancer such as genetics, hormones, suppressed immune systems, toxins, and the environment. Common cancers found in dogs and cats include lymphoma, hemangiosarcoma, mast or spindle cell tumor, osteosarcoma, melanoma, carcinoma, and leukemia.

Our oncology services include drawing blood, extracting cells for cytology, and removing diseased tissues for microscopic examination to help determine the type of cancer present. Whenever possible, our doctors will review these samples in-house and discuss their initial findings with you. Following sample review , we’ll discuss your pet’s prognosis and treatment options. Treatment can be as simple as our doctors surgically removing a growth or tumor or may include chemotherapy administered here at the clinic. When necessary, we’ll refer you to a board-certified oncologist or board-certified surgeon but we’ll always be available to answer your questions and help you and your beloved family member navigate this complex disease.

Summary of Services

  • Blood sampling & testing in our in-house laboratory
  • Extracting cells for cytology
  • Ultrasound Imaging
  • Digital radiology imaging
  • Removal diseased tissues for examination
  • Growth or tumor removal
  • Chemotherapy Treatments

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CLINICAL TRIALS AND STUDIES

Clinical trials are research studies that try to answer specific clinical questions about new therapies and drugs. Often clinical trials offer cutting-edge treatments at a reduced cost to the animal owner. This research generates new ways to detect and treat clinical problems for the benefit of animal and human medicine. For more information of these trials, we refer to University of Illinois Clinical Trials.