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Liver Cancer in Dogs
Primary liver cancer is the result of a primary liver tumor (one that originates in the liver). The most common primary liver tumor is the hepatocellular carcinoma which
usually does not spread to other parts of the body. Instead, the tumor invades into the liver tissue.
Primary liver cancer is less common than metastatic liver cancer in dogs. Primary liver cancer occurs more frequently in older dogs (10 years of age or older). There is a
slightly increased risk of primary liver tumors in male dogs. Although rather rare, primary liver cancer in dogs can also metastasize to other parts of the body.
Metastatic Liver Cancer
Signs of Liver Cancer in DogsIn the early stage of canine liver cancer, clinical signs are vague and not distinctive. As the disease progresses, some symptoms of canine liver cancer include:
Causes of Liver Cancer in DogsThe cause of primary liver cancer may be related to environmental factors, such as exposure to cancer-causing chemicals (carcinogens). Examples of possible carcinogens include chemicals in some commercial pet food (food additives, artificial coloring and flavors), certain pesticides, dyes, etc. TopDiagnosis of Liver Cancer in DogsIf canine liver cancer is suspected, usually the following tests will be done:
Treatment for Liver Cancer in Dogs
For primary cancer cases that show no evidence of metastatic disease, surgical removal of the liver tumor may be possible. If complete removal of the cancerous cells can be
achieved, the dog patient can live for at least one year or so after surgery. Some may even survive for several years.
Malignant tumors that cannot be surgically removed due to severe involvement of the liver and/or metastatic spread to other parts of the body carry a very poor prognosis.
In cases of secondary liver cancer, chemotherapy is sometimes recommended. (Chemotherapy has not been shown to be useful for treating primary malignant liver tumors, which
are highly resistant to chemotherapy drugs.)
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Natural Remedies for Liver Cancer in DogsAlthough natural remedies such as herbs, homeopathic remedies, and natural supplements may not be able to destroy tumors, they are nonetheless effective in strengthening the immune system, making the body stronger to fight against diseases such as cancer. Some dog parents have reported success in using the herbal formula "Essiac" to treat canine cancer, while others swear by such remedies as the "Budwig Diet". For more information on these and other natural remedies for canine cancer, please visit our pages on Herbs for Cancer in Dogs and Dog Cancer Diet.Related Topics Dog Cancer Symptoms of Dog Cancer Conventional Cancer Treatment for Dog Patients Herbs for Cancer in Dogs Dog Cancer Diet References S. Messonnier, The Natural Vet's Guide to Preventing and Treating Cancer in Dogs (New World Library, 2006). A.D. Shojai, New Choices in Natural Healing for Dogs and Cats (Rodale Press, Inc., 1999). TOP OF Liver Cancer in Dogs |
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