Canine Cancer - Hemangiosarcoma
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| Characteristics / Terms | Hemangiosarcoma | Lymphoma |
| Histiocytomas | Mammary Tumors | Testicular Tumors |
| Mast Cell Tumors | Bone Cancer |
Hemangiosarcoma in Dogs
Hemangiosarcoma is an aggressive cancer that arises from the blood vessels. The cancer can occur anywhere in the body, but there are several locations that are more common. Early and aggressive treatment can lengthen the dog's life, but this cancer is often metastatic and complete remission is rare.
Dogs At Risk for Hemangiosarcoma
Hemangiosarcomas can occur in any dog. It does not discriminate on the basis of breed, age, or sex. However, several breeds of dogs seem to be at greater risk for hemangiosarcoma, including German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Boxers, and English Setters.
Researchers do not currently understand why dogs develop hemangiosarcoma. Because of the increased incidence in several breeds, a genetic link appears to be one of several likely causes. Because hemangiosarcoma is rarely found in humans, less research has been done and the amount of information about the cause of this tumor is somewhat limited.
Symptoms of Hemangiosarcoma
Hemangiosarcomas can occur anywhere on or in a dog’s body, but primarily are present in the spleen, liver, heart, and skin. The skin form of hemangiosarcoma has a better prognosis and recovery rate than the internal forms. The skin form is more present in cats, and is sometimes associated with sun damage on light-skinned/haired animals. The internal form is usually diagnosed by the palpitation of a large mass in the abdomen or with symptoms of sudden blood loss, which results from the rupture of the fragile tumor and a subsequent loss of blood into the abdomen. Symptoms include weakness or collapse and pale mucous membranes. Occasionally, dogs will have symptoms of chronic blood loss, which include pale gums, slow capillary refill time (CRT), irregular heart rate, and generalized weakness.
Hemangiosarcoma Diagnosis
Once a tumor is suspected, abdominal and chest X-rays are often performed to determine the extent of organ involvement and to find out whether or not metastasis is present. Hemangiosarcoma is an aggressive tumor, and metastases are often present at the time of initial diagnosis. A biopsy or positive identification of a removed tumor by a veterinary pathologist is usually recommended.
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