Lymphoma, also known as lymphosarcoma (LSA), is a cancer of the lymph nodes and lymphatic system that occurs when aberrant lymphoid cells quickly proliferate in your pet's lymph nodes or other organs. This cancer may be limited to a certain area or it may spread throughout the body. It is one of the most frequent malignancies in pets, and it may be categorized according to anatomic location, staging, and sub-staging.
There are several types of lymphoma in pets:
- Multicentric lymphoma.
- Gastrointestinal lymphoma.
- Mediastinal lymphoma.
- Extranodal lymphoma.
Multicentric lymphoma is the most prevalent kind of lymphoma in pets, and it is distinguished by swollen lymph nodes. If you see any new "bumps" on your pet, you should take him to the doctor right away. In general, your veterinarian should evaluate older animals twice a year. During every inspection, your veterinarian examines your pet's lymph nodes for size and symmetry, which allows them to detect any abnormalities early.
SYMPTOMS
Lymphoma symptoms differ depending on where the malignancy is placed. Among the possible symptoms are:
Enlarged lymph nodes, lymph nodes under the jaw, lymph nodes in front of the shoulder, lymph nodes in the armpits, lymph nodes behind the knee, lymph nodes in the inner thigh, lethargy, weight loss, diarrhea, no appetite, vomiting, swelling of limbs, difficulty breathing, and increased water intake.
If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned in your pet or a different behavior, call your veterinarian at Franklin Veterinary Hospital , so we can assist you and help your furry friend.
DIAGNOSING
By aspirating the swollen lymph nodes and sending them to the laboratory for a cytology test, your veterinarian may be able to identify lymphoma. If lymphoma is diagnosed, your veterinarian will advise staging and a visit with an oncologist. Staging is the process of evaluating whether or not cancer has spread and where it has spread. It can also assist in determining the aggressiveness of the cancer.
TREATMENT
Chemotherapy is the treatment of choice for lymphoma in pets, just as it is in people. It is crucial to note that pets do not experience the same adverse effects that humans do from chemotherapy. While their white blood cell levels may decline, pets are unlikely to experience acute nausea, inappetence, fur loss, and lethargy that human chemotherapy patients have observed. As a pet owner, you may assist your pet with lymphoma by regularly monitoring him or her after each treatment.
Think your pet might have lymphoma or have noticed something different in their behavior? Schedule an appointment with Franklin Veterinary Hospital in Franklin, NC to get started and find out what’s the problem. If you have any questions or need help making the best decision for you and your pet, please let us know.
