Difference in Tumors in Dogs

It is distressing for any owner to hear her dog has been diagnosed with a tumor, but not all of them are terminal. Consequently, it is important to gather all the facts before considering your course of action. Your vet will be able to advise you about the appropriate treatments, which typically vary depending on the type of tumor.

  1. Identification

    • Some types of tumors are easier to identify than others. For instance, skin cancer often manifests itself on the outside of the body in the form of a lump or discolored patch of skin, while internal tumors that affect the organs initially manifest in the form of other symptoms. Depending on where the tumor is in the body, these can include seizures, lameness, internal bleeding and a loss of appetite.

    Significance

    • While some tumors are benign and will not spread to other organs or systems, they may cause obstructions and major health problems. Malignant tumors need urgent attention because they can grow quickly and spread to other parts of your dog's body. Each type of tumor requires its own treatment, so a proper diagnosis is imperative.

    Types

    • Tumors can affect all organs in a dog's body, including the skin, lungs, stomach, mouth and eyes. According to Canine Cancer, mast cell tumors affect 20 percent of all dogs. They occur when mast cells, which help fight allergic reactions and inflammation, multiply. These tumors can range from harmless to extremely aggressive and release potentially dangerous chemicals into a dog's body.

    Causes

    • There is no single cause of dog tumors, though genetics might play a part, as certain breeds are more disposed to developing certain tumors than others. For example, West Highland Terriers have a higher incidence of bladder cancer, while Beagles, Boston Terriers, Golden Retrievers and Labradors are among those more likely to develop mast cell tumors. Age can also be a factor, as older dogs develop more tumors than puppies.

    Prevention/Solution

    • The kind of treatment a dog undergoes depends on the type of tumor. Surgery is used to remove many tumors and then followed up with chemotherapy to prevent their spread. If a tumor is in an area of the body that is difficult to operate on, such as the brain, then a veterinarian might recommend radiotherapy to reduce the swelling.