Canine hemangiosarcoma ranks among the most aggressive cancers, affecting primarily the heart and spleen. Because this form of sarcoma targets blood vessels, it tends to grow and metastasize quickly. The spleen and heart are the most commonly affected organs, with the cancer typically spreading to soft tissues throughout the body. Hemangiosarcoma tends to occur more frequently in older and larger dogs, like German shepherds, golden retrievers and Labradors.
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A Cure?
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Hemangiosarcoma is incurable, and its treatment options are few. However, depending on the patient and the stage of cancer, a higher survival rate may be possible.
Symptoms
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Signs and symptoms of hemangiosarcoma can be sudden and vague. The dog may exhibit signs of weakness, a distended abdomen, loss of appetite and weight loss. Nosebleeds are also common in patients with this form of cancer. If severe blood loss occurs, or if a neoplasm bursts, sudden death may occur. When a patient exhibits symptoms, it usually indicates that the cancer has spread.
Diagnosis and Treatment
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Diagnosing hemangiosarcoma typically requires blood tests, a urine sample and a sample of abdominal fluid. X-rays and ultrasounds may also be used to confirm a diagnosis and to determine location of masses and free blood or fluid.
Surgery may be required to treat dogs with hemangiosarcoma, as it removes the mass and provides temporary relief, although it does not increase the survival rate. As clinical signs become present, the cancer has likely already spread throughout the body. As the disease metastasizes, chances of survival diminish.
Some patients are good candidates for chemotherapy, which can extend life by as much as 179 days. However, chemotherapy may pose more risks, and these must be considered. Other protocols are being studied and may prove hopeful in more effectively treating hemangiosarcoma.
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