Cutaneous Lymphoma in Dogs

The most common tumors in dogs are malignant lymphomas, which is a condition also defined as a lymphosarcoma. These types of malignancy generate within the lymphoid tissues of the dog, such as the spleen, bone marrow, or lymph nodes. They can occur in any of the bodily tissues. 

Lymphoma is a term that is used to describe a variety of cancer. Cutaneous lymphoma is a type of skin cancer that occurs within abnormal T-cells of the dog. Lymphoma is cancer that stems from the lymphocytes, which are the white blood cells that aids the immune system of the dog to attack any infection. The lymphocytes are very important to the immune system, and when cancer occurs within the lymph nodes, such as in the spleen or bone marrow, the actual organs begin to show signs of abnormality.

Cutaneous lymphoma, in the advanced stages, begins to affect the peripheral blood and the internal organs. Fortunately, this type of cancer is treatable, though there is no cure. It responds very well to treatments, as this rare form of cancer has been researched over the years. A skin biopsy is the only way to determine if any dog has this rare disease.

Cutaneous lymphoma in dogs is a type of lymphoma, or skin cancer, that originates through the lymph nodes of specific organs.

• Peeling skin
• Lesions and ulceration
• The skin may be itchy
• Plaques
• Hair loss
• Thickened skin
• Oozing of fluid
• No response to antibiotics
• Possible presence of oral lesions (gum and lips)

Types

There are specific types of dog breeds that may be more susceptible to this type of skin cancer. These dog breeds include:

• Boxers
• Basset Hounds
• Scottish Terriers
• Airedales
• Bull Dogs

As with many cancers, the actual cause is unknown. However, research has shown that the following may play a role in the cause of skin cancer. Causes may include:

• Environmental factors
• Dietary factors
• Lifestyle
• Exposure to toxins
• Predisposition in certain breeds

If you suspect your dog may have this type of skin cancer, make an appointment with your veterinarian.  Your veterinarian may ask questions pertaining to his symptoms, such as when you first noticed them and if he is having any other symptoms in addition to irritated skin. Your medical professional will begin by conducting a few laboratory tests. He may perform blood work, urinalysis, and biochemistry profile. He will then examine your dog’s skin and he may decide to perform a biopsy of the skin that is affected. This may be done by a fine-needle aspiration or by doing a skin test. 

Your veterinarian may check for a fungal infection or a bacterial infection. He may choose to do a biopsy and remove a patch of the skin to send off to a laboratory. An x-ray or ultrasound could be done to check for underlying disorders. Other tests may be performed as well, depending on what your veterinarian needs to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment will depend on the prognosis of your dog and the severity of the disease. Treatment methods may include:

Radiation Therapy

If your dog has been diagnosed with cutaneous lymphoma, he will discuss with you the types of therapy that are best suited for his disease. Your veterinarian may consider radiation therapy for your dog. 

Surgery

Surgery to remove the skin cancer may be the best option for your dog. Surgery may be performed and may be used in conjunction with radiation or chemotherapy.

Chemotherapy

Your veterinarian may recommend chemotherapy to treat your dog’s cutaneous lymphoma. Your dog will be scheduled to attend several appointments to receive his chemotherapy treatments, depending on how the therapy is administered.

Although chemotherapy is the main treatment for cutaneous lymphoma, your dog’s prognosis depends on the severity of his disease. It is very important to listen to your veterinarian and follow his instructions on any specific care you need to give to your companion. 

If your dog had surgery or is receiving treatments for his cutaneous lymphoma, it is crucial to stay abreast of any information you can find out about the disease. Educating yourself is very important so you can know how the disease presents itself and what the possible outcomes can be. Remaining proactive is essential, and being there for your pet is even more important.