Some lymph nodes are easier to find than others. Lymph nodes below your Boxer’s jaw and behind his knees will be easily visible when enlarged. Lymphoma can spread to multiple lymph nodes very rapidly.
GI lymphoma makes up less than 10% of all canine lymphomas.
Healthy, noncancerous gums are pink.
Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) of an enlarged lymph node is a quick, painless, and inexpensive way to diagnose lymphoma. A long, thin needle is used to take a sample of cells. If your vet thinks the lymphoma has spread, they may perform ultrasound-guided FNAs of some internal organs (e. g. , intestines, bone marrow). A biopsy is the ‘gold standard’ for diagnosing lymphoma, since it provides more accurate information than an FNA about the cancer. [9] X Research source Your vet will determine whether to do an FNA or a biopsy. Other diagnostic tests include bloodwork, urinalysis, chest x-rays, and abdominal ultrasound. These tests will help your vet determine where the lymphoma has spread to in your Boxer’s body.
Dogs in remission can live very happy lives, so do not be discouraged over the lack of a cure for your Boxer’s lymphoma.
Doxorubicin is a chemotherapy drug used to treat lymphoma. Between 70 and 90% of dogs treated for lymphoma with a doxorubicin-based treatment plan achieve remission. Most dogs tolerate chemotherapy very well, so your Boxer will probably not suffer serious side effects during treatment. [13] X Research source Serious side effects, which occur in only about 5% of canine lymphoma cases, include diarrhea, vomiting, extreme tiredness, and changes in urination (e. g. , blood in urine). Tell your vet about any negative side effects your Boxer experiences.
Surgery or radiation therapy, when combined with chemotherapy, can be effective if your Boxer has only a single lymphoma. Prednisone, which is a steroid, can treat lymphoma by killing cancer cells. It is inexpensive and can be given by mouth. [15] X Research source Discuss these other treatment options with your vet.
Your vet will perform different tests to detect the cancer. How long your Boxer stays in remission depends on different factors, such as the primary site of the lymphoma and how far it has spread.
Take notice if your Boxer starts looking unwell, or if his lymph nodes start swelling up again. These signs could indicate a relapse, meaning the lymphoma has come back.
When your Boxer’s lymphoma no longer responds to chemotherapy, your vet will adjust the treatment plan and focus more on keeping him comfortable.
