Medical question, can you help?

Hello, I have a healthy, active 7 yr old male boxer, Kashmir. He has developed a cyst-like bump on his left ear. It is "skin-like"- in appearance with a dark, scab-like center. It doesnt bother him. My vet said unless it grows or he starts to scratch at it, it should not be a problem But I dont like the way it looks. Should I have it removed or leave it be? Does anyone have a similiar experience to this? Thanks!

 

Concidering the fact that we aren't vets, and even if we were we are unable to examine your dog, I'd say you should follow your vet's advice. If you're uncomfortable with that, get a second opinion from a different vet.

 

I agree with shine, lumps really need to be looked at and felt. I will say though, the 'general' rule is if there is any discolouration, any change in colour, any change in size, any bleeding, pus, then get it checked out immediately, HOWEVER there are always the 'exception' to the rule. If your not happy get a second opinion.

 

Thank you very much......

for your feedback; just wanted to hear some more opinions. I will keep an eye on it.....

 

I agree - watch for any changes in the appearance of the lump and seek a second opinion if you feel something is being overlooked. I think they could biopsy it pretty easily. Perhaps one of the vet tech people could confirm that?

 

Yes...absolutely, they can always be biopsied, a fine needle aspirate can be done also, the 'contents' obtained can be examined under a microscope although depending on the findings there further testing may be required, some of them can be removed with a local anaesthetic but it depends on the lump itself, location, size, depth etc. and the dog, not all dogs are willing or able to stay calm enough in which case its better to anaesthetize.
A lot of lumps are just fatty cysts and are usually not worth the risk of anaesthesia to remove them as long as they are not hindering the dog in any way.