What are the signs of lymphoma?
Because lymphoma can affect any tissue in the body, symptoms can be vague and may reflect the organ that is involved. Signs of lymphoma can include the following: Generalized lymph gland swelling and enlargement (most easily felt under the jaw, in front of the shoulder and behind the knee) Loss of appetite Weight loss Vomiting and/or diarrhea Lethargy Excessive drinking Skin lumps Neurologic signs Most dogs with lymphoma still feel fine and the glandular enlargements are often noticed incidentally by the owner, the groomer, or the veterinarian during routine examination. In the cat, most cases involve the intestinal tract so diarrhea and weight loss are the most common symptoms in that species. What tests are needed? In most cases a needle aspirate or biopsy of the affected organ(s) is required to make the diagnosis. This usually involves a biopsy or removal of a lymph gland in dogs as that is the most common organ involved. In cats and dogs with the intestinal form of the disease, bio
