Lymphoma Histology in a Cat

Lymphoma in felines describes a broad range of feline tumors that affect lymph cells and lymph nodes. When a pet owner first finds out that her cat has lymphoma, it can be scary. However, while some cases that are labeled as feline lymphoma can be serious, not all cases are serious. There are many different types of feline lymphoma that can occur in both young and older cats.

  1. Common Types of Feline Lymphoma

    • There are five common types of feline lymphoma. Multicentric lymphoma is found in the lymph nodes and multiple organs. Feline leukemia is usually associated with this type of lymphoma. The thymic form of lymphoma is also associated with feline leukemia; however, this type is limited to the chest cavity. Mesenteric lymphoma affects the small intestine and stomach and generally occurs in older cats over 10 years of age. Low-grade alimentary lymphoma affects older cats and is confined to the intestines. Cutaneous lymphoma occurs in older cats; it appears as a skin disease.

    Causes of Feline Lymphoma

    • A combination of factors can cause lymphoma in cats. Environmental factors can lead to lymphoma. Exposure to chemicals such as aromatic benzenes, dioxins or organophosphates, which have all been linked to lymphoma in humans, could result in the feline as well. Nutrition and bacteria have been linked as causes of feline lymphoma, as well as genetic predisposition. Although all of these factors have been linked as causes, research is still being conducted to better define the factors that are causing the lymphoma to occur.

    Symptoms

    • Lymphoma can present with several different types of symptoms. The most common symptoms include weight loss, reduced appetite, vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy. The most common symptoms are vomiting and diarrhea. However, it is important to note that other factors can cause these symptoms as well, and the appearance of these symptoms does not mean that a cat is suffering from lymphoma. Tests and observation must be conducted by a trained veterinarian to confirm the suspicion of lymphoma.

    Diagnosis

    • Physical examinations can reveal swelling lymph nodes or bloated GI tract. X-rays and ultrasounds may be used to look for tumors and swelling in internal organs. A blood test for FeLV or FIV will determine whether a cat is carrying one of the diseases and therefore predisposed for developing lymphoma. A tissue sample may also be taken as a fine needle biopsy of suspected lymphoma tissue.

    Treatment

    • Survival of a cat with lymphoma depends greatly on how quickly the lymphoma is found and diagnosed. The location of the tumors is also a major factor in treatment and survival rate of the feline. Approximately 70 percent of cats treated with chemotherapy have a positive response and will live an additional 4 to 16 months. Some cats are able to achieve a higher level of remission that lasts, on average, for 2 years. Cats that are diagnosed but not treated survive an average of 4 to 6 weeks. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to treat the lymphoma is the owner's. However, it is recommended that the feline be euthanized if the lymphoma is not to be treated.