Mast cell tumors: What’s new

Veterinary oncologist Dr. Craig Clifford demystifies mast cell tumor (MCT) grading and related pathology reports. Explore the use of the medicine Stelfonta for dogs with MCT, and learn how to palliate cancer patients in the primary care setting.

 This session originally was presented at AVMA Convention 2022.

 Participants can expect to learn about:

  • Diagnostic and treatment options that can be performed in general practice for dogs with lymphoma and mast cell tumors
  • Mechanism of action and adverse event profile of Stelfonta
  • When and where to use MCT cytologic grading
  • How to palliate cancer patients in a primary care setting



Dr. Craig Clifford earned his DVM from Mississippi State University and completed his oncology residency at the University of Pennsylvania. He became a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (Oncology) in 2003. Dr. Clifford has served as director of clinical studies at Blue Pearl Malvern in Pennsylvania. He also is active in clinical research within a referral setting and serves as an advisory board member for both industry and non-profit foundations. He has authored or co-authored over 70 papers and book chapters, and is a frequent lecturer at veterinary meetings nationally and internationally. Among other positions, he has served as a member of VCA Animal Hospitals’ Pet Cancer Care Alliance Committee and the Veterinary Cancer Society’s executive board.