Perhaps due to the increase in the life expectancy of dogs, it seems that the diagnosis of cancer is becoming more frequent, especially in older animals. In this article on our site we will talk about one of the most common, lymphoma in dogs We will explain what this disease consists of, how it can manifest itself, what the options are for its treatment and, finally, we will also talk about the life expectancy that affected dogs will have, a priori.
What is lymphoma in dogs?
In this section we will talk about lymphoma in dogs. Also known as lymphosarcoma, this cancer occurs in lymph nodes or organs containing lymphoid tissue, such as the spleen, liver or bone marrow. Lymphoma occurs in older and middle-aged dogs, but lymphoma can also be seen in young and even very young dogs. It is produced by an uncontrolled and malignant proliferation of the cells of the lymphoid system. The cause is unknown but environmental risk factors are considered, such as herbicides or tobacco smoke, some viruses or changes in immunomodulation, as well as genetic predisposition.
Although it is believed that lymphoma in Labrador retrievers is very common, the truth is that there are no studies to prove it. According to the Morris Animal Foundation in 2016[1], in the bullmastiff there is a tendency to increase the incidence of lymphoma.
Finally, lymphoma can be found in various clinical stages, which are as follows:
- I: A single affected lymph node.
- II: several lymph nodes affected in the same area.
- III: Generalized lymph node involvement.
- IV: liver or spleen involvement.
- V: Bone marrow involvement.
Symptoms of Lymphoma in Dogs
Depending on the clinical condition or the affected system, the 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 it is possible to notice an increase in the abdominal area.
If the chest is involved in the process, there may be fluid in the chest cavity, which is known as pleural effusion In these cases the dog will have breathing difficulties. When lymphoma affects the skin we can see itchy plaques or nodules. On the other hand, if the intestine is the affected system, there will be vomiting and diarrhea.
Diagnosis of Lymphoma in Dogs
Any of the symptoms described is reason for veterinary consultation. To reach the diagnosis of lymphoma in dogs, the hemogram can give us important information and in it we can discover anemia, immature lymphocytes and increased calcium levels , known as hypercalcemia of malignancy Liver parameters may also be altered.
Another important test in the diagnosis of lymphoma in dogs is cytology which is performed on aspirated cells from an enlarged lymph node with a fine needle. These nodes can also be removed for biopsy X-rays and ultrasounds of the chest and abdomen allow evaluation of lymph nodes, organs, and masses. Other tests such as MRI may be done.
Treatment of lymphoma in dogs
For a correct treatment each case must be assessed, taking into account the circumstances of the dog, the type of lymphoma and its extension, as it may be localized or have metastasized. The goals of treatment are to prolong survival time and maintain a good quality of life. If we are dealing with a single lymph node, it can be treated by surgical removal, but the truth is that in many cases the lymphoma will be generalized, so chemotherapy treatments are used., as this is usually the best option. We must know that this can have secondary effects, such as those related to the gastrointestinal system or lymphocytes, decreasing their number and making the dog more prone to infections. Other effects include irritation from extravasation of the drug, which is administered 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 there is no cure or increased life expectancy. radiotherapy and immunotherapy can also be used. The prognosis will depend on the stage of the lymphoma that the dog has when treatment begins. It is important to start treatment as soon as possible and not wait for recurrences or metastases to appear, as this complicates the condition.
Is there a cure for lymphoma in dogs?
Depends on the type of lymphoma and the clinical stage of the disease. As we have seen in the previous section, there are cases of lymphoma in dogs that are cured through surgery or treatments, however, there are others in which it is not A cure is possible and the treatment will be based on improving the quality of life. As always, the specialist handling the case will be the one best able to establish a prognosis.
Life expectancy in dogs with lymphoma
Life time in cases of lymphoma in dogs is variable, since, as we have said, it will depend on the type and what phase you are in. An untreated lymphoma can cause the death of the dog in a matter of weeks. With chemotherapy treatment, the average life expectancy of sick dogs is around a year or a year and a half and can even reach 2-3, always counting from the diagnosis.
