THORACIC METASTASES OF CANINE MAMMARY GLAND TUMORS

The absence or presence of metastases on thoracic radiographs in 55 female dogs with mammary gland tumors was assessed by comparing the results of a single radiographic examination, using dorsoventral and left lateral views, with clinical and histologic follow-up data. Radiographic abnormalities found in dogs with thoracic metastases were classified as well-defined pulmonary nodules, ill-defined pulmonary nodules, and involvement of pleural effusion. No obvious difference in the effect on the right or left lung lobes was found. The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy for the detection of thoracic metastases were 65%, 97%, and 87%, respectively.