| Dogs > Cancer > Cutaneous Lymphoma in Dogs Explained | |
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also see Canine Lymphoma
When suffering from the malignant disease lymphoma, dogs can be affected in numerous organs, like the liver and spleen, in addition to the lymph nodes. It's a fatal cancer that spreads quickly; however, early treatment can save years to your dog's life.
A healthy lymphatic system is responsible for the manufacturing and circulation of white blood cells to fight disease. Lymphoma occurs when the white blood cells begin to spread unchecked by the lymphatic system, eventually attacking and disabling other cells.
Cutaneous lymphoma in particular refers to lymphomas that form on or under skin. You'll notice ulcers on the skin and in the mouth, which will appear red or inflamed.
In order to diagnose your dog, your vet will take blood tests, tumor aspirations, biopsies of affected areas and x-rays.
Treatment for cutaneous lymphoma begins with surgery, with the intent of removing cancers before they metastasize, chemotherapy to kill the cells, and immune moderators to prevent your dog from becoming sick. On a home front, providing your dog with a low-carbohydrate diet rich with Omega 3 fatty acids will keep your dog as healthy as possible.
also see Benign and Malignant Tumors in Dogs: Understanding the Difference
also see Diagnosing Lung Cancer in Dogs
also see Lung Cancer in Dogs: An Overview
also see Treating Canine Carcinoma With Chemotherapy
also see Lymphoma: When Dogs Require Chemotherapy
also see Dealing with Cancer: Dog Diet Recommendations
also see Entropion and Disorders of Dogs Eyelids
also see Cushing's Disease in Dogs - Treatment and Diet Suggestions