Lymphoblastic Lymphoma In Dogs Symptoms, Causes And Treatment

May 28, 2011 | Dog Cancer | Leave a Comment |

Lymphoblastic Lymphoma in Dogs:

Lymphomas in dogs do have treatment. Note that early diagnosis when it comes to blood cancer in dogs is important and has a large impact on the dog’s prognosis.

  • Refers to the involvement of the dog’s lymphocytes, most especially the lymphoblasts or immature lymphocytes.

Canine Lymphoblastic Lymphoma:

  • This type of cancer commonly occurs or originates within the bone marrow and can involve any of the lymphocytes in the body.
  • In this disease, the immature lymphocytes of the dog’s body known as the lymphoblasts, starts to rapidly produce.
  • In some cases, the cancer has progressed to the point wherein it becomes present in the circulation or becomes malignant.

Causes:

  • The exact cause is unknown.
  • The disease often starts with the presence of an immature lymphocyte which then begins to produce rapidly.
  • Environmental factors including exposure to certain pesticides or strong magnetic fields have been known to increase the incidence of this cancer.
  • Some breeds of dogs are prone to developing the disease such as Golden retrievers, Rottweilers, and Scottish terriers.
  • Age is also a risk factor because the disease usually hits dogs that are middle-aged or old.

Symptoms:

Presenting symptoms will depend on the organs or tissues affected as the disease spreads.

  • Blood dyscrasias or abnormalities in the blood’s components as seen in a complete blood count.
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Decreased appetite or loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Lethargy
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Increased thirst
  • Increased urination
  • Presence of lumps
  • Skin changes

Treatment:

  • Chemotherapy – the most common form of treatment for lymphoblastic lymphoma.
  • Radiation therapy – treatment option for localized form of the disease.
  • Surgery – treatment alternative for localized form of the disease.
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