Dog Histiocytic Sarcoma

From Pet Health Learning Center

Latest revision as of 23:54, November 21, 2012

Dog Histiocytic Sarcoma

Histiocytic sarcomas are cancerous tumors of the soft tissue. These tumors originate from cells in the immune system called dendritic and macrophage cells. There are two different types of sarcomas which are determined by the biological behavior and the clinical findings. These are disseminated (all over the body) and localized.

Signs and Symptoms

This type of tumor will manifest itself in different ways depending on the where they are. The symptoms that occur in most other cancers are evident in these as well. They are: fatigue, Dog Weight Loss due to Dog Loss of Appetite and weakness.

Localized Histiocytic Sarcoma

Although initially local, these are very aggressive tumors. There is a medium to high risk of metastasis. The most likely organs to be affected are the lungs, liver, spleen, kidneys and lymph nodes. They generally affect middle age and senior dogs.

Diagnosis

The usual tests to diagnose histiocytic sarcoma are ultrasound of the abdomen, biopsy and bone marrow cytology.

Treatment Options

Surgery is the most highly recommended treatment. If the tumor cannot be completely removed, Dog Radiation Therapy is then usually recommended.

Prognosis

Depending on the location of the tumor and speed in which it is treated, prognosis is generally good.

Disseminated Histiocytic Sarcoma

These malignant tumors are those that involve the organs in the body. The Bernese Mountain Dog, Rottweiler, Labrador Retriever, Flat-Coated Retriever and the Golden Retriever appear to have more frequent occurrences than other breeds.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms vary with the organs that are affected. Dog Anemia, leukocytosis and thrombocytopenia are also common symptoms. Disseminated Histiocytic sarcoma is diagnosed frequently by symptoms rather than examination. Treatment is not very rewarding and the prognosis is very poor. Most dogs survive less than one year after diagnosis.

Pain Associated With Histiocytic Sarcoma

All cancers cause pain, some more than others. Treatments such as surgery, Dog Cancer Chemotherapy and other treatments can also cause unrelenting pain. The veterinary team has the responsibility to treat the potential for pain rather than the pain itself. This is done by prescription medications that should be administered as directed. For some cancers the use of a therapeutic bed can increase the comfort as well. Some memory foam beds relieve joint and muscle pain and provide comfort for the patient.

Diet and Nutrition

Weight loss is a common side effect of cancer. The pain or obstruction will cause a loss of appetite in your dog. Some mechanical interference is present with the involvement of cancers in and around the mouth and neck. Digestive systems are also compromised. It is important to consult closely with your veterinarian or your veterinary oncologist to develop a Dog Cancer Diets plan that will help your dog maintain their weight.

This will help to keep your dog's energy level up and will aid in maintaining a strong immune system. The pain from the cancer or the treatment can cause a loss of appetite in your dog as frequently as it does in humans. Maintaining a proper diet with Dog Cancer Dietary Supplements will also help to improve survival times and also increase their response to therapy. There are diets specifically designed for dogs with cancer and it will require consultation with your veterinary team, especially the veterinary oncologist.

Suggested Products

ES Clear for Dog Cancer Support Cancer Support Kit for Dogs Nu-Pet Vitamin and Anti-Oxidant Wafers for Dogs

Additional Dog Cancer Pages

Dog Cancer | Dog Skin Cancer | Dog Bladder Cancer | Dog Pancreatic Cancer | Dog Bone Cancer | Dog Cancer Prevention | Dog Cancer Diagnosis | Dog Lymphoma Cancer | Dog Gastric Cancer | Dog Mast Cell Tumors