Lymphoma is very treatable
Everyveterinarian develops a techniquefor performing a comprehensivephysical exam. I often steady dogson a lift table with my hand on theirflank and then at the back of theirknee. My other hand palpates thefront of the shoulder and rubs beneaththe neck. That way, I can greet andcalm the dog while also checking thelymph nodes.
We examine every dog at every visit for enlarged lymph nodes, a sign of lymphoma. It’s a common cancer in dogs, cats and humans; some dog breeds are especially prone to lymphoma.
I examine cats from head to tail, if possible. We first look at their eyes and in their mouths because some cats resent further handling. At least we have checked their teeth. We especially try to palpate the abdomen and the kidney area. Cats often have enlarged abdominal lymph nodes or thickened intestinal loops. Lymphoma in cats is commonly found in the intestinal tract. In dogs and cats, it can also affect the skin, bone marrow, and upper and middle back.
Earlydiagnosis is important and anyenlarged nodes or unusual symptomsrequire an immediate examand diagnostic workup. That mayinclude a complete physical exam,blood tests, X-rays and possiblyan ultrasound examination. Suspectedcancerous areas may be biopsiedor aspirated with a needle.
Without treatment lymphoma is often fatal in four-eight weeks. Yet it is a very treatable form of cancer. With chemotherapy about 75 percent of cases go into remission. After treatment life expectancy can be six-12 months. A few pets live more than a year after diagnosis and can discontinue medication. Even those pets that relapse after chemotherapy can be given rescue treatments that can get the cancer back under control.
Treatment is often referred to a veterinary oncologist or an internal medicine specialist. Their experience with complicated cases make for a better outcome. Occasionally treatments are prescribed by a primary care veterinarian.
With chemotherapy we often see immediate results; pets are back to normal in days or weeks. Side effects include low white blood counts, vomiting and diarrhea. We do not see hair loss. Less complex treatments have significantly shorter life expectancy.
We look at lymphoma as a treatable disease. As with heart disease, liver or kidney problems, treatment can result in extended lives, and that means owners have more quality time with their pets.