Osteosarcoma is the most aggressive form of canine bone cancer and accounts for up to 90 percent of bone malignancies, according to peteducation.com. It affects older and large or giant breeds such as great Danes or golden retrievers. Up to 85 percent of affected dogs suffer from appendicular osteosarcoma, meaning it affects the limbs.
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Causes
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The cause of canine osteosarcoma is unknown but may be due to genetics, trauma or injury, foreign objects (metal implants) and chemical carcinogens.
Symptoms
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Symptoms of appendicular osteosarcoma may include swelling, pain in the joint and lameness. Dogs suffering from cranial or vertebral osteosarcoma may have neurological issues while mandibular (lower-jawbone) osteosarcomas may cause difficulty with swallowing.
Diagnosis
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A physical exam and various tests will be used to rule out other causes of lameness, neurological issues or swallowing difficulties. To confirm canine osteosarcoma, an X-ray and biopsy are necessary.
Treatment
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Appendicular osteosarcoma requires amputation of the affected limb. For other forms of osteosarcoma, there may be chemotherapy, surgical removal of affected bones, pain management and radiation therapy.
Prognosis
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Due to the high rate of metastasis of canine osteosarcomas, many dogs are dealt a poor prognosis. A variety of factors will determine each dog's individual prognosis and include age, severity of cancer and whether metastasis has occurred.
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