The term “lymphoma” is a generic description for cancers that arise from lymphocytes, cells responsible for immune function. Historically, we could distinguish a peculiar type of lymph node tumor (Hodgkin disease) from all other types of lymphoma (which were then grouped into the classification: “non-Hodgkin lymphoma”). Here, we will discuss only the latter group of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Veterinarians also use the term “lymphoma” and “lymphosarcoma” interchangeably with non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Together, the tumors that make up the different types of lymphoma are among the most common cancers diagnosed in dogs, accounting for as many as 1/4 to 1/5 of all malignancies. In fact, we estimate that lymphoma occurs about 2 to 5 times as frequently in dogs than in people. Although there are breeds that appear to be at increased risk for this disease, lymphoma can affect any dog of any breed at any age.
While the diagnosis of lymphoma as a general disease can be relatively straight forward, telling the different forms of lymphoma apart can be challenging. Part of the difference relates to where the tumor is located:
- “Multicentric” is the most common anatomic form of lymphoma because by the time it is diagnosed, the lymphoma has spread to virtually every lymph node (lymph gland) in the body. Enlarged lymph nodes can be seen or felt under the neck, in front of the shoulders, or behind the knee.
- Sometimes, lymphoma affects lymph nodes that are not visible or palpable from outside the body, such as those inside the chest or in the abdomen. In these cases, dogs may accumulate fluid in the chest that makes breathing difficult, or they may have digestive problems (diarrhea, vomiting, or painful abdomen).
- Lymphoma also can be restricted to specific organs (for example, the intestine, the kidney, the liver, the bone marrow, and the brain, among others).
- The anatomic location is important to “stage” the disease, a process that involves a series of diagnostic procedures that are used to determine its extent and prognosis, and which then relate to treatment options.
- The other important aspects used to classify lymphoma relate to the microscopic appearance of the cells and their molecular composition (called “phenotype”). Determination of these features requires a tissue biopsy, and until recently, it has been applied erratically in veterinary practice. We now recognize that these features provide valuable information to determine prognosis and to guide therapy.
- “Diffuse large B cell lymphoma” is the most common type of lymphoma seen in dogs. If left untreated, dogs with this type of lymphoma will generally succumb to the disease within 3 to 4 weeks. Durable remissions (approximately one year on average) are achievable using the standard-of-care, multi-agent chemotherapy. Most dogs tolerate chemotherapy remarkably well and are able to function normally and maintain a very high quality of life; and unlike humans, most dogs receiving chemotherapy do not lose their hair. Notable exceptions are breeds of dogs with continuously growing hair coats such as poodles, Old English sheepdogs, and Bichon Frises. Treatment with prednisone (a corticosteroid) alone can induce short-lived remissions, usually less than 8 to 12 weeks. Unfortunately, this approach frequently renders the disease resistant to further treatment.
- Other types of lymphoma are quite different from diffuse large B cell lymphoma, so the anticipated survival may be longer, they may respond better to other treatment regimens, or they may respond poorly, if at all to any available therapy.
Ultimately, many factors must be considered to accurately diagnose, prognosticate, and determine the best treatment plan for a dog with lymphoma, recognizing each case is unique. Generally, the best approach is achieved when the family, the primary care veterinarian, and specialists involved in an affected dog’s care work together as a team to determine the best option for each specific case.
Are there any clinical trials for lymphoma in dogs at the U of M?
For the most up-to-date information on clinical trials, visit the Clinical Trials page.