Subcutaneous Mast Cell Tumor

I’m looking for feedback from anyone experienced with canine subcutaneous mast cell tumors.
My 6-year-old Boston Terrier, Bella, had a 2 cm movable mass removed on 9/10. The pathology came back as a subcutaneous mast cell tumor.
Key findings:
• Mitotic count: 0
• No vascular invasion observed
• Infiltrative growth pattern
• Tumor cells extend to within 1 mm of multiple margins
• Tumor cells infiltrate into and through the deep fascia
The report says more than 90% of subcutaneous MCTs are controlled with surgical excision alone, but also says Bella’s infiltrative pattern may indicate a somewhat more biologically aggressive tumor.
We see the veterinary oncologist Tuesday. I’m trying to understand what other people’s experiences have been with similar pathology—particularly whether your dog had a second surgery, radiation, or active surveillance.
If you’ve had a dog with a subcutaneous MCT with a mitotic count of 0 and infiltrative/close margins, I’d really appreciate hearing what treatment was recommended and how things turned out.
Thank you. ❤️

Posted Sep 25, 2026, 5:17 PM UTC

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