Diarrhea is not a disease, but rather an indicator of many different diseases and illnesses. It is a common cause for owners to bring their dogs to the veterinarian. Unfortunately, diarrhea can also be a symptom of various canine cancers.
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Types
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Diarrhea can be an symptom of some types of canine cancers, specifically cancers that affect the lymphatic system or the gastrointestinal tract.
Other Causes
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Other causes of canine diarrhea that are not cancer related may include intestinal parasites, toxins, viral or bacterial infections, changes in diet, pancreatic insufficiency or irritable bowel syndrome.
Additional Symptoms
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Additional symptoms that are often associated with diarrhea may include weight loss, vomiting, dehydration, loss of appetite and abdominal pain.
Diagnosis
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First, several tests, such as blood tests, will be run to rule out other potential causes. Once all other common causes have been ruled out, additional tests such as tissue biopsies or ultrasounds will be needed to confirm the presence of cancerous cells.
Treatment
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Treatment will vary based on the type of cancer that is present and may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, cryosurgery, hyperthermia, immunotherapy, targeted therapy and photodynamic therapy.
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