Leukemia

What is leukemia?

Leukemia is a collective term for various types of blood cancer that differ in the type and extent of cell proliferation. In dogs, there are two main forms: lymphoid leukemia and myeloid leukemia.

Lymphoid leukemia occurs when the lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell responsible for immune defense, multiply abnormally. These cancer cells accumulate in the lymph nodes and can affect other organs such as the spleen, liver or bone marrow. Lymphoid leukemia can be acute or chronic. The acute form is more aggressive and has a worse prognosis than the chronic form.

Myeloid leukemia affects the myeloid cells that are formed in the bone marrow and can become different types of white blood cells. These cells divide uncontrollably and displace the normal blood cells in the bone marrow. Myeloid leukemia can also be acute or chronic. The acute form is more dangerous and has a lower survival rate than the chronic form.

What are the causes of leukemia in dogs?

The exact causes of leukemia in dogs are not yet known. It is assumed that it is a spontaneous mutation in the genetic material of the cells that leads to impaired cell division. However, there are some factors that can increase the risk of leukemia, such as

• Exposure to radiation or toxic chemicals
• Some viral diseases such as canine parvovirus or canine herpesvirus
• A weakened immune system
• A genetic predisposition

Some dog breeds are more susceptible to leukemia than others. These include, for example, the Golden Retriever, German Shepherd, Boxer or Beagle.

What are the symptoms of leukemia in dogs?

The symptoms of leukemia in dogs depend on the type and stage of the disease. They can be very non-specific and often confused with other diseases. The most common signs of leukemia include

• Loss of appetite and weight loss
• Fatigue and weakness
• Fever and infections
• Bleeding or bruising on the skin or gums
• Swelling of the lymph nodes or spleen
• Increased thirst and increased urination
• Behavioral changes such as apathy or aggressiveness

If you notice one or more of these symptoms in your dog, you should take him to the vet as soon as possible. Only a thorough examination can diagnose leukemia and rule out other possible causes.

How is canine leukemia diagnosed?

To diagnose leukemia in dogs, the vet will need to perform various tests. These include:

• A clinical examination to assess the dog's general condition and detect any abnormalities.
• A blood count to determine the number and type of white blood cells and check other blood values.
• A bone marrow biopsy to take a sample of the bone marrow and analyze it under a microscope. This is the definitive test to confirm the type and extent of leukemia.
• An X-ray or ultrasound scan to detect possible changes in organs such as the lymph nodes, spleen or liver.

How is canine leukemia treated?

The treatment of leukemia in dogs depends on the type, stage and health status of the dog. The aim is to stop or slow down the proliferation of the cancer cells, alleviate the symptoms and improve the dog's quality of life. The most common treatment methods are

• Chemotherapy, which involves the administration of drugs that inhibit cell division. Chemotherapy can be administered orally or intravenously and has various side effects such as nausea, vomiting, hair loss or infections.
• Radiotherapy, which involves irradiating the affected areas with high-energy rays. Radiotherapy can reduce the size of tumors and relieve pain. It can also cause side effects such as skin irritation, hair loss or nausea.
• Immunotherapy, which involves stimulating the immune system to fight the cancer cells. Immunotherapy can involve vaccinations, antibodies or cytokines. It can also cause side effects such as fever, chills or allergic reactions.
• Supportive therapy, which involves the administration of fluids, antibiotics, painkillers or supplements to strengthen the dog and relieve its symptoms.

What is the prognosis of canine leukemia?

Unfortunately, the prognosis for leukemia in dogs is not very good. Most dogs only survive a few months after diagnosis. The survival rate depends on the type and stage of the leukemia. The acute form has a worse prognosis than the chronic form. Lymphoid leukemia has a better prognosis than myeloid leukemia.

Treatment can prolong the dog's life and improve its quality of life, but it cannot cure the disease. Some dogs respond better to treatment than others. The vet will help you choose the best option for your dog and inform you about possible complications or side effects.

When should a dog with leukemia be euthanized?

The decision to euthanize a dog with leukemia is a very difficult and personal one. There is no right or wrong course of action. You should seek advice from your vet and form your own opinion.

Some factors you should consider are:

• The health of the dog
• The effectiveness of the treatment
• The dog's quality of life
• Your financial means
• Your emotional attachment to the dog

You should euthanize your dog if it is in severe pain that cannot be relieved, if it is no longer enjoying life or if it is seriously ill and there is no hope of recovery.

You should not e uthanize your dog if it is still active, if it is still interested in its surroundings or if it still has a chance of recovery.

You should always put your dog's welfare first and not let him suffer. You should also respect your own feelings and not feel guilty about whatever decision you make.