Lymphoma

The following is by no means an exhaustive list and is meant to provide a basic description of the more common cancers that afflict our dogs. We have provided links to more detailed information on other websites under Cancer Support.

Lymphoma, also known as Lymphosarcoma (LSA) is one of the most common cancers seen in dogs. Although there are breeds that appear to be at increased risk for this disease, lymphoma can affect any dog of any breed at any age. It accounts for approximately 20% of all canine tumors.

Most of the time, lymphoma appears as “swollen glands” (lymph nodes) that can be seen or felt under the neck, in front of the shoulders, or behind the knee. Occasionally, lymphoma can affect lymph nodes that are not visible or palpable from outside the body, such as those inside the chest or in the abdomen. In these cases, dogs may accumulate fluid in the chest that makes breathing difficult, or they may have digestive problems (diarrhea, vomiting, or painful abdomen). If left untreated, dogs with lymphoma will generally succumb to the disease within 3 to 4 weeks.

Lymphoma is generally treated with drugs and there are now a wide range of different drugs available which can have considerable success.

The average dog with lymphoma is between 6-9 years although dogs of any age can be affected. Certain breeds (Boxers, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Pointers, Scottish and West Highland Terriers ) may be more likely to develop this type of cancer. Males and females are equally at risk.

 

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