Lymphoma is a condition that can occur in humans, dogs and cats. It is more common in cats that test positive for the feline leukemia virus. Cats that develop lymphoma are often quite sick, and the symptoms depend largely on where the lymphoma is located in the cat's body.
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Identification
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According to Vetmed.wsu.edu, lymphoma is defined as any variety of malignant (cancerous) tumors that arise in the lymph nodes. Lymphoma can occur in any breed of cat, at any age. However, the average age of cats with lymphoma is nine to 10 years of age.
Types
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There are three types of malignant lymphoma that may occur in cats. Multicentric lymphoma involves multiple lymph nodes throughout the body and can involve multiple internal organs. This form of lymphoma is directly related to the feline leukemia virus and cats that test positive for the virus generally do not have a favorable prognosis. Another type of lymphoma that cats can develop is mediastinal lymphoma. This type of lymphoma is found in the chest and affects the lymph nodes and the thymus. Alimentary lymphoma affects the digestive tract, as well as the lymph nodes that surround the area.
Symptoms
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According to Peteducation.com, cats that develop malignant lymphoma may have symptoms that closely relate to the type of lymphoma that is present. Cats that have alimentary lymphoma may develop symptoms such as weight loss, rough hair coat, loss of appetite, vomiting and diarrhea. Mediastinal lymphoma often causes respiratory distress and fluid in the lungs. Lymphoma that develops in the nasal cavity often causes symptoms like nasal discharge and facial swelling.
Diagnosis
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Your veterinarian will perform a physical examination on your cat to diagnose malignant lymphoma. This may include diagnostic tests such as X-rays and an abdominal ultrasound. Blood tests such as a CBC (complete blood count) and a chemistry panel may also be performed. Cats that have enlarged lymph nodes may undergo a biopsy in which a sample of lymphoid cells is taken and examined under a microscope. The presence of immature lymphoid cells confirms the diagnosis of feline lymphoma.
Treatment
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The treatment for malignant feline lymphoma may include chemotherapy to reduce the size of the tumor. Cats that have localized tumors may undergo surgery to remove them, followed by radiation therapy. It may be necessary to seek the advice of a veterinary oncologist if your cat has malignant lymphoma.
Prevention/Solution
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While there is no guarantee that vaccinating your cat against the feline leukemia virus will prevent lymphoma, there is a link between cats that carry the feline leukemia virus and lymphoma. According to Peteducation.com, vaccinating your cat against the feline leukemia virus and eliminating exposure to other cats are the two best ways to reduce the likelihood of malignant lymphoma your cat.
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