Osteosarcoma is a malignant bone tumor and accounts for 5% of all cancer cases in canines, with much of that affecting the limbs or cranium. It is estimated that osteosarcoma affects more than 8,000 dogs each year in the United States alone.
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Types and Locations
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Osteosarcoma commonly affects canine leg joints and shoulders. Squamous cell carcinoma, another cancer-producing tumor, is found in the jaw bones and toe bones. Osteosarcoma that is present outside of the limb bones is designated as "axial".
Time Frame
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Osteosarcoma is an aggressive cancer that generally affects older large or big-breed dogs. While older dogs are more susceptible, there does appear to be an increased incidence in dogs aged one to two years, as well. The life expectancy of a dog properly treated for the disease varies a good deal, but it can be around a year or longer.
Symptoms
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Dogs with jaw tumors will have difficulty swallowing. If a dog is constantly tired, or lame, and is never active, tumors could be present. If a tumor has sufficiently progressed, you will see an abnormal lump on the dog's body.
Treatment
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Amputation of the affected area is used in cases where the dog has maintained mobility. Removing the tumor does ease the pain associated with tumors, but does not increase the chance of survival. However, when amputation is combined with chemotherapy, the chances of survival increase.
Warnings
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While the direct cause of osteosarcoma is not known, one theory is that trauma to the bone, such as fracture, may increase the chances of tumor development.
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