An Oncologist is a Specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
The American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (www.acvim.org) was founded in 1973. In 1988, it started to certify Specialists in Oncology. These Specialists are referred to as Diplomates, ACVIM (Oncology). To become Board Certified in Oncology, a veterinarian must graduate from veterinary school, complete an internship or equivalent experience, complete a 2-3 year residency in Oncology, and pass both an ACVIM qualifying and an Oncology certifying exam. As of December 2007, there were approximately 200 Board Certified Specialists in Oncology.
The Oncologist either makes or confirms the diagnosis of cancer and, when appropriate, stages the disease. To pursue or confirm a diagnosis of cancer, the Oncologist relies upon his or her expertise in physical examination, selection, and interpretation of diagnostic tests which include blood work, imaging and cytology, and biopsy. The Oncologist then offers the client treatment options based on his or her experience and the current literature. If treatment is elected, the Oncologist will manage the pet’s treatment throughout the course of therapy and is available for follow-ups.
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