Cancer occurs when the mutated cells grow uncontrollably. These cells can bunch together and form tumors, or they can spread throughout the body―or both. Dr. Leah Cohn of PetPlace.com notes that cancer accounts for nearly 50 percent of all deaths in pets aged 10 years and older. Unfortunately, abdominal cancers can grow without your knowing it, simply due to their location.
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Types
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According to Dr. Cohn, tumors can affect any one of the many interior abdominal organs. This means that abdominal cancer can refer to the stomach, lymph nodes, intestines, kidneys, bladder, liver and spleen. Furthermore, there are several different types of cancers that can affect these organs--including mast-cell tumors, squamous-cell carcinoma, lymphoma and hemangiosarcoma--all of which are named based on the type of cell where they originated.
Symptoms
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The symptoms of abdominal cancers vary based on which organ is involved and how severe the cancer is. For example, stomach cancer--along with several other abdominal-area cancers--can produce symptoms such as vomiting, weight loss, diarrhea and loss of appetite. Additional signs of potential abdominal cancers include abdominal enlargement, weakness, pale gums or a mass that may be felt when petting the dog.
Diagnosis
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Diagnosing canine abdominal cancers involves several different diagnostic tools, including blood tests and a urinalysis to test for the functioning level of the organs. The affected dog will also require abdominal ultrasounds or x-rays. These are done to detect the exact size and location of any tumors that may be present. X-rays and ultrasounds can also be beneficial in determining whether the cancer has spread. Tissue biopsies can also be done to confirm the malignancy and its type.
Treatment
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For some dogs, surgical removal of certain abdominal tumors may be possible. Surgical removal may also be combined with other cancer treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Certain types of cancer may not benefit from treatment or the cancer may be so aggressive that the dog may need to be euthanized. While this is unfortunate, sometimes it is the only humane option, especially in cases of severe stomach cancers; these can be extremely painful and debilitating to the affected dog.
Prognosis
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Certain types of abdominal cancers have a poor prognosis, such as cancers that affect the stomach. Tumors that are more accessible or less aggressive may have a more favorable prognosis. Lifespans following diagnosis can vary anywhere from a few days to several weeks or even months.
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