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Lymphoma in Dogs (Canine Lymphosarcoma)Lymphoma in dogs is a common type of canine cancer, making up about 7 to 25 percent of all dog cancers.
Signs of Lymphoma in Dogs
Clinical signs of canine lymphoma depend on the location of the tumor(s), and the extent to which the disease has developed.
For tumors that occur in the lymph nodes, we can notice a painless enlargement of the dog patient's lymph nodes, with no other symptoms. The dog usually does not feel
sick. Sometimes the affected lymph nodes will enlarge, then shrink back to normal size, then enlarge again.
For lymphoma that occurs in the stomach or intestines, the dog patient may show signs that are typical of gastrointestinal problems, such as:
Causes of Lymphoma in DogsThe exact cause of canine lymphosarcoma is unknown, although there seems to be increased risk in dogs who have been exposed to the herbicide 2,4-D. Other possible causes include exposure to strong magnetic fields, or genetic predisposition. TopRisk Factors for Lymphoma in DogsAge Canine lymphosarcoma occurs more commonly among middle-aged to older dogs. In fact, most affected dogs are between 5-9 years of age. Breeds The following breeds of dogs tend to have a higher risk of developing canine lymphosarcoma:
Diagnosis of Lymphoma in DogsDepending on the location of the tumor, canine lymphoma is diagnosed using a combination of tests, such as blood tests, fine needle aspirates of the tumor, biopsies, x-rays and ultrasound. TopTreatment for Lymphoma in Dogs
Since canine lymphosarcoma is considered a systemic or whole body disease and may strike in any location, surgery is ineffective and impractical.
The treatment of choice is chemotherapy which usually consists of a combination of oral and injectable drugs given on a weekly basis. Some commonly used anticancer
medications for canine lymphosarcoma include Elspar, Cytoxan, Oncovin, Adriamycin, and prednisone. While undergoing chemotherapy, regular blood tests should be carried
out to monitor for decreased white blood cell counts (drug-induced myelosuppresion).
For the same reason as surgery, radiation is not commonly recommended for lymphoma in dogs. However, relatively novel approaches have recently been adopted to treat
canine lymphosarcoma. For example, the dog patient may receive half-body irradiation - each half body is treated 4 weeks apart. Also, radiation to a single lymph node or
all nodes may be given to dog patients that are drug-resistant.
Most dogs with lymphoma are rather responsive to chemotherapy. Greater than 75% of dogs with lymphoma are expected to achieve a complete remission of 6 to 11 months with
chemotherapy. When a dog treated with chemotherapy comes out of remission, further chemotherapy (rescue protocol) can be given which may induce second or even third
remissions. However, understand that cancer cells that have survived prior chemotherapy treatments are stronger and more resistant to being eradicated; therefore,
stronger and stronger medications have to be used. Dog parents, at that stage, have to make a decision as to whether it is in their dogs' best interest to have more
rounds of treatment or whether euthanasia is a better option.
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Natural Remedies for Lymphoma 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 Lymphoma in Dogs |
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