What is cutaneous hemangiosarcoma?

Cutaneous hemangiosarcoma is a tumour arising from vascular tissue; it typically appears as red-to-purple or easily bleeding skin nodules. A definitive diagnosis requires sampling and pathology — speak to your vet to understand the individual risk.

How does the vet examine and diagnose this type of tumour?

The vet will begin with a physical exam and fine-needle aspiration or scraping; a biopsy and imaging (X-ray, ultrasound, or CT) may follow to confirm the pathology and assess the extent of disease. Follow your vet's recommended schedule.

What treatment options are available?

Treatment can include local surgical excision and, when necessary, systemic therapy. The plan must be determined after evaluation by an oncologist or primary vet — discuss the most suitable individualised approach with your vet.

What should I watch for after surgery or during treatment?

After surgery, keep the wound clean, restrict activity, and attend regular rechecks with imaging follow-up. Contact your vet promptly if there is recurrent bleeding or a noticeable change in energy or appetite.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Cutaneous Hemangiosarcoma in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Care [2025]

Cutaneous hemangiosarcoma has a better prognosis than the visceral form; UV exposure may be a risk factor. Early wide-margin surgical excision generally yields better outcomes.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: ACVIM, WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek Emergency Care Immediately

•Heavy, uncontrolled bleeding from the wound within a short period
•Mass has ruptured with significant blood loss that cannot be stopped
•Lethargy and markedly reduced appetite

Schedule a Clinic Visit Soon (Within 24–72 Hours)

•Red or purple skin mass that bleeds
•Mass is growing rapidly or has an irregular shape
•Local pain with the pet avoiding touch or frequently licking and biting the area

01What symptoms indicate something is wrong?

Common signs include red-to-purple skin lumps or recurrent bleeding; the lump may enlarge rapidly or the surface may ulcerate. Early evaluation is recommended.

Red or purple nodules or lumps appear on the skin
The lump surface ulcerates, crusts over, or bleeds easily when bumped
The tumour grows rapidly or has an irregular shape
A repeatedly scratched area continues to bleed or forms a blood crust
The area may be painful — your pet may avoid being touched there
If there is recurrent bleeding or rapid changes in the lump, seek veterinary care promptly

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Profuse bleeding from the wound that cannot be controlled within a short time
⚠️ The lump suddenly ruptures and causes heavy bleeding
⚠️ Bleeding is accompanied by a marked drop in energy and appetite

02How can I assess the situation at home? Key observations and emergency criteria

Recording key information at home helps the vet quickly understand the condition and arrange the appropriate tests.

Take close-up and full-body photos or a short video of the lesion for reference
Note when the lump was first noticed and any subsequent changes in size or shape
Record how often scratching, bleeding, or ulceration occurs and how you managed it
Watch for changes in energy, activity level, appetite, and toileting habits
Monitor body weight and water intake regularly for any significant changes
If heavy bleeding occurs, apply gentle pressure with a clean gauze pad and seek veterinary care

03How will the vet diagnose this? Common diagnostic steps

The vet will typically start with a physical exam, sampling, and imaging; advanced imaging or biopsy may follow depending on the findings.

Physical examination

palpation to assess lump size and pain response

Skin sampling

scraping or fine-needle aspiration for preliminary cytology

Chest and abdominal X-rays

to evaluate for visceral metastasis or abnormal shadows

Ultrasound

to examine changes in the abdominal organs or tissues surrounding the lesion

Advanced imaging (CT or MRI) and biopsy under anaesthesia for a definitive pathological diagnosis

04What treatment and aftercare are needed? Medication, diet, and home care guide

Treatment may include local excision or systemic therapy; post-operative wound care and regular imaging follow-up are needed to monitor for recurrence or metastasis.

Surgical excision is a common option for local control
Systemic treatment (e.g. chemotherapy) requires specialist evaluation
Schedule regular recheck appointments and imaging follow-ups as directed by your vet
Home care includes wound cleaning and preventing the area from getting wet or being licked
Appropriate diet and supportive care aid post-operative recovery and overall health
Discuss a follow-up plan with an oncologist or a hospital with advanced imaging capabilities

05What should I prepare before the vet visit? Key steps to help your vet assess quickly

Take close-up photos, full-body photos, and a short video of the lesion for reference

Write down when the lump was first noticed, how it has changed, and what you have done about it

Note the frequency of scratching or bleeding and whether any measures were taken to stop the bleeding

Mention any recent changes in appetite or living environment

Bring any previous test reports or imaging results if available

When booking, note that an evaluation for a skin tumour or advanced imaging is needed

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.

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