Kaya, a 4 year old Terrier Cross, was seen as a self-referral for a second opionion and Eastern
                treatment regarding a large 1 to 1.5 cm dark colored mass located just lateral of the styloid process 
                of the radius. Prior history indicated the swelling was first observed by the owner 10/2007. She was taken 
                to her prior veterinarian 11/2007. Radiographs were taken and they indicated a mild increased density in
                the area. A tentative diagnosis of joint effusion secondary a small bone chip. The patient was given Joint 
                Support. The swelling continued to grow taking the form of a "large blueberry"; the owner elected to 
                look for another opinion. She was seen at our office on 1/2008. There was normal range of motion in 
                the carpus, no indication of pain with the movement of the carpus, and no pain on mild to moderate 
                pressure to the tumor. There was a slight reaction with a large amount of pressure.  The tumor was
                firm and non-movable. Due to the rapid rate of growth and the location of the tumor, the owner was
                advised to have an aspirate done or have the tumor surgically removed. No comparative radiographs 
                were done because of the change in character of the tumor from a mild swelling to a large discrete
                tumor. The owner was warned that the location of the tumor would make closure of the wound site
                difficult at best. She declined surgery and wanted to try Traditional Chinese treatment modalities. 
                The TCM diagnosis was Phlegm Formation, Blood Stagnation, secondary to Spleen Qi Deficiency.
                Two Chinese Herbal Formulas were prescribed, Stasis Breaker and a transporter herb, Four Paws Damp Herb. 

                No acupuncture was done. There were no pain issues or other symptoms indicating severe Zang-Fu organ 
                deficiencies. Needles are rarely placed in the local areas of tumors. In cases that involve tumors and cancers, 
                needles are used to increase the quality of life such as increasing appetite, increasing energy, stimulating 
                the immune system, and removing pain.The patient showed no need at this time.                    
                         
                          A follow-up visit was done on 4/24/08 and the owner thought the tumor had reduced to half the original size. 
               On physical exam the tumor appeared slightly smaller. The herbs were continued at the same dosage and 
               enough herbs were dispensed to last for a little over a month. The patient was seen by Dr. Lopez at the
               end of June for hind leg lameness. No tumor was found on the front leg at that time. She was seen in 2/2009
               by Dr. Craig, no tumor was observed on the front right leg. The owner reported that the tumor was gone by
               the end of May in 2008. (Dr. Craig regrets the lack of a camera at the time of the intial presentation.)