Episode Details

A lump! Lipoma? Or a mast cell tumor in disguise? In this episode, Dr. Sylvia Conway talks with oncology specialist, Dana Connell, DVM, MPH, MS, DACVIM (O), to dig into how to tell the difference and about spotting a mast cell tumor sooner. They cover when to aspirate, what cytology can and can't tell you, and why a mast cell on a slide isn't automatically a tumor. They also look at where the IDEXX Cancer Dx™ Panel can fit into wellness protocols. The takeaway: if you see a mass, poke a mass.

About the guest: Dr. Connell is a board-certified veterinary medical oncologist and IDEXX Medical Affairs Specialist for Oncology. She earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and Master of Public Health degrees from the University of Florida, completed a rotating internship at Auburn University, and a medical oncology residency at the University of Illinois, where she also earned a master’s degree focused on metastatic osteosarcoma research.  Prior to joining IDEXX in 2024, she practiced specialty veterinary medicine and contributed to the profession through leadership and advisory roles. At IDEXX, Dr. Connell supports the clinical application of advanced oncology diagnostics and contributes to research initiatives aimed at improving cancer detection and patient care. Keep up with Dr. Connell at linkedin.com/in/dana-connell.

To learn more about mast cell tumors and cancer care, check out these free courses on the IDEXX Learning Center.

• Overview of Mast Cell Tumors

• Confidence in Cancer Care: Practical Approaches to Mast Cell Tumor Diagnosis and Management

• What Owners Want to Know When Their Pet is Diagnosed with Cancer

About our host: Sylvia Conway BSc, BVetMed, MRCVS

Dr. Conway is the host of the Shake Up Your Workup podcast. She joined IDEXX in May 2014 after spending five years as a mixed and small animal veterinarian in the United Kingdom. She currently oversees medical education tracks at tradeshow events and enjoys all aspects of her role. Dr. Conway is passionate about delivering clinically relevant medical education that promotes best practices and adds value to the day-to-day lives of veterinary practitioners.

Originally from London, Dr. Conway relocated to Amsterdam, Netherlands, in February 2013. She still lives in Amsterdam with her husband, two young sons, Frankie the cat, and their canine companion, Wappie.

Thank you for listening to Shake Up Your Workup. You can contact us at shakeupyourworkup@idexx.com with comments and feedback.

Disclaimer:

This podcast features hosts and guests who may be employed by IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. or its affiliates ("IDEXX"). The content of this podcast is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be taken to represent official IDEXX policies, guidance, or positions. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individual speakers only.

This podcast may reference IDEXX products or services as part of the professional disc