What is lymphosarcoma?
Lymphosarcoma (also known as lymphoma) is a cancer of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is responsible for filtering debris from the body. This debris may include bacteria and dead cells, from areas of infection or inflammation, that are carried to the lymph nodes where they are engulfed, digested and removed from the body. The lymphatic system also helps with the body’s normal immune system by producing antibodies (immune proteins made in response to a foreign substance). A tumor that affects the lymphatic system can prevent these normal functions and may affect multiple organs throughout the body. Lymphosarcoma is one of the most common cancers seen in the ferret. What causes lymphosarcoma? When a pet is diagnosed with cancer, owners often ask where it came from, how the pet got it or how it started. Exactly what transforms an apparently healthy cell into a cancerous cell is not known. Many studies are being done in the field of cancer research to determine this. What are th
• Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphocyte (see photo right of malignant lymphocytes), which is a type of white blood cell that helps deal with inflammation and infection in your pet’s body. • Lymphoma typically develops in organs with a large amount of lymphoid tissue, such as the lymph nodes, spleen, liver, gastrointestinal tract and bone marrow. However, it may arise in almost any tissue in the body.3 • The average age of dogs with lymphosarcoma is between six to nine years, although dogs of any age can be affected.4,5 Certain breeds have been reported to have a higher incidence of lymphoma such as Boxers, Bull Mastiffs, Basset Hounds, Saint Bernards, Scottish terriers, Airedales and Bulldogs.6,7 Breeds with a lower risk include Dachshunds and Pomeranians.6,7 Recent evidence has also shown a high incidence in Golden and Labrador Retrievers. • The cause of lymphoma is dogs is ultimately unknown and likely involves a number of factors.3 In general, all tumors arise from an underlying ab
