Learn About Canine Lymphoma
By Lauren Means
Just like lymphoma found in humans, canine lymphoma is a widely used term for a group of cancers that start in white blood cells called lymphocytes. Lymphocytes assist the immune system in fighting off infection. Canine lymphoma can affect any organ in the body but is more commonly found in lymph nodes, the spleen, and bone marrow where there is typically a higher concentration of lymphocytes.
Out of the 30 possible types of canine lymphoma, the four most common types, according to Catherine Barnette, DVM with VCA Animal Hospitals are:
- Multicentric (systemic) lymphoma. This is, by far, the most common type of canine lymphoma. Multicentric lymphoma accounts for approximately 80-85% of cases of lymphoma in dogs. In multicentric lymphoma, lymph nodes throughout the body are affected.
- Alimentary lymphoma. This term is used to describe lymphoma that affects the gastrointestinal tract. Alimentary lymphoma is the second most common type of lymphoma.
- Mediastinal lymphoma. In this rare form of lymphoma. Lymphoid organs in the chest (such as the lymph nodes or the thymus) are affected.
- Extranodal lymphoma. This type of lymphoma targets a specific organ outside of the lymphatic system. Extranodal lymphoma is rare but may develop in the skin, eyes, kidney, lung, or nervous system.
Symptoms vary between the different types. For multicentric lymphoma, the most common first symptom is firm, enlarged, non-painful lymph nodes but can also include loss of appetite, lethargy, weight loss, swelling of the face or legs, and occasionally increased thirst and urination.
Cutaneous lymphoma tends to first appear as dry, flaky, red, and itchy patches of skin but can also present as masses in the skin. Sometimes cutaneous lymphoma appears in the mouth affecting gums, lips, and the roof of the mouth.
Gastrointestinal lymphoma usually has symptoms such as vomiting, watery diarrhea, and weight loss while mediastinal lymphoma typically presents with difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or front legs as well as increased thirst and urination.
If you have concerns about any symptoms in your dog, you should schedule a visit with your vet for a physical exam. From there, if there is any concern, your vet may recommend a fine needle aspiration biopsy, a skin biopsy, and/or bloodwork as a part of the examination.
If your dog does end up with a diagnosis of lymphoma there are treatment options including chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. If you opt to forego treatment or if the prognosis is very poor, there are palliative therapies that could be recommended to treat symptoms and provide comfort.
You can read more about canine lymphoma at https://vet.purdue.edu/pcop/canine-lymphoma-research.php.
If you have any concerns or questions about your pet’s health, contact your vet for assistance.
The preceding information is not meant to be a substitute for veterinary care, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please seek the help of a licensed veterinarian for any signs that your dog is ill or if there is any question that help might be needed.
