Content
- What is Lymphoma in Dogs?
- Lymphoma symptoms in dogs
- Diagnosis of Lymphoma in Dogs
- Lymphoma treatment in dogs
- Is lymphoma in dogs curable?
- Life expectancy in dogs with lymphoma
Perhaps because of the increase in life expectancy in dogs, it appears that the diagnosis of cancer is becoming more frequent, especially in older animals. In this article by Animal Expert we'll talk about one of the most common, the lymphoma in dogs. We will explain what this disease consists of, how it can manifest itself, what are the options for its treatment and, finally, we will also talk about the life expectancy that, in principle, affected dogs will have.
What is Lymphoma in Dogs?
In this section, we're going to talk about canine lymphoma. This cancer, also known as lymphosarcoma, appears in the lymph nodes or organs that contain lymphoid tissue, such as the spleen, liver or bone marrow. Lymphoma occurs in older and middle-aged dogs, however lymphoma can also be detected in young and even very young dogs. It is produced by an uncontrolled and malignant proliferation of cells in the lymphoid system. The cause is unknownHowever, environmental risk factors are considered, such as herbicides or tobacco smoke, some viruses or alterations in immunomodulation, as well as genetic predisposition.
Although it is believed that lymphoma in Labrador dogs is very common, the truth is that there are no studies to prove it. According to the Morris Animal Foundation, in 2016[1], in bullmastiff there is a tendency to increase the incidence of lymphoma.
Finally, the lymphoma can be found in various clinical stages., which are as follows:
- I: a single lymph node (or lymph node) affected.
- II: multiple lymph nodes affected in the same area.
- III: widespread lymph node involvement.
- IV: liver or spleen involvement.
- V: bone marrow involvement.
Lymphoma symptoms in dogs
Depending on the clinical condition or affected system, symptoms vary. Thus, we can suspect lymphoma if we find enlarged lymph nodes in the groin, armpit, neck or chest. In addition, the dog may appear lethargic, anorexic and consequently underweight. The liver and spleen may also appear enlarged, so you may notice an increase in the abdominal area.
If breastfeeding is involved in the process, there may be fluid in chest cavity, what is known as pleural effusion. In these cases, the dog will have breathing difficulties. When lymphoma affects the skin, we may see itchy plaques or nodules. On the other hand, if the bowel is the affected system, there will be vomiting and diarrhea.
Diagnosis of Lymphoma in Dogs
Any of the symptoms described is a reason for a veterinary consultation. To reach the diagnosis of lymphoma in dogs, the blood count can give us important information and in it we can find out anemia, immature lymphocytes and increased calcium levels, what is known as malignant hypercalcemia. Liver parameters may also show altered.
Another important test in the diagnosis of lymphoma in dogs is the cytology performed on enlarged lymph nodes removed with a fine needle by aspiration. These nodules can also be removed to take a biopsy. Chest and abdominal X-rays and ultrasounds allow an assessment of lymph nodes, organs, and masses. Other tests, such as MRI, can be done.
Lymphoma treatment in dogs
For a correct treatment, each case must be evaluated considering the circumstances of the dog, the type of lymphoma and its extension, after the metastasis is localized or produced. The goals of treatment are: prolong survival time and maintain a good quality of life. If we are faced with a single lymph node, it can be treated by surgical removal, however, the fact is that, in many cases, the lymphoma will be generalized, so they are used chemotherapy treatments, as is usually the best option. We should know that this treatment can have side effects, such as those related to the gastrointestinal system or lymphocytes, reducing them in number and making the dog more prone to infections. Other effects include irritation from drug extravasation given intravenously, hemorrhagic cystitis, or allergic reactions.
In some cases, surgery is used palliatively, that is, to improve the animal's quality of life, even if healing or increased life expectancy does not occur. THE radiotherapy and immunotherapy can also be used. The prognosis will depend on the stage of lymphoma that the dog suffers when it starts to be treated. It is important to start treatment as soon as possible and not wait for recurrence or metastasis, as this would complicate the condition.
Is lymphoma in dogs curable?
It depends on the type of lymphoma and the clinical stage of the disease. As we saw in the previous section, there are cases of lymphoma in dogs that are cured by surgery or treatments, however, in other cases the cure is not possible and the treatment will be based on improving the quality of life. As always, the expert who takes the case will be the one who can best make a prediction.
Life expectancy in dogs with lymphoma
the lifetime is variable in cases of lymphoma in dogs, because, as mentioned, it will depend on the type and stage in which it is found. An untreated lymphoma can kill a dog in a matter of weeks. With chemotherapy treatment, the average life expectancy of sick dogs is about a year or a year and a half and, it can even reach 2 or 3 years, always counting from the diagnosis.
This article is for information purposes only, at PeritoAnimal.com.br we are not able to prescribe veterinary treatments or perform any type of diagnosis. We suggest that you take your pet to the veterinarian in case it has any type of condition or discomfort.