Lymphosarcoma Cancer and Dogs

A malignant cancer of the lymphoid system, lymphosarcoma occurs in middle-aged to older dogs. Certain breeds carry a higher risk of developing the cancer such as German shepherds, basset hounds, golden retrievers, rottweilers and Scottish terriers. Due to the higher incidence of lymphosarcoma in certain breeds and also in family groups, a genetic factor cannot be overlooked.

  1. Areas of Interest

    • One of the most common cancers seen in dogs, lymphosarcoma causes non-painful enlargement of lymph nodes beneath the skin's surface, according to the Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Depending on the form of lymphosarcoma, different areas may be affected such as the liver, skin, central nervous system, bone marrow, spleen or gastrointestinal tract.

    Symptoms

    • Common symptoms involve lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, pale gums and overall weakness. Unfortunately, lymphosarcama is not considered to be treatable, although measures can be taken to prolong life.

    Diagnosis

    • A complete physical exam is the first step in diagnosis. A biopsy using a needle can gain cells to be sent in for analysis to a laboratory. X-rays or ultrasounds are often used to gauge if cancer has spread to other areas of the body. A bone marrow aspirate may be performed to determine if the cancer has spread there.

    Chemotherapy

    • Chemotherapy can be helpful; the cancer in 80 percent of all dogs who underwent the procedure went into remission, according to Oncolink. Dogs tend to tolerate the chemotherapy well with very few adverse effects. Common drugs administered on a weekly basis are L-asparaginase, Cytoxan, Adriamycin and Vincristine. Depending on the drug, administration is performed orally or as an injection. The drugs are often alternated because the tumor can build up an immunity to just one drug.

    After Remission

    • Chemotheropy is discontinued after a dog's cancer is in remission. When the dog come out of remission chemotheropy drugs can again be administered but they are rarely successful the second time. The average length of remission tends to be 6 to 9 months.