Introduction To Melanoma In Canines
Melanoma can affect your dogs mouth, skin, or toes. This is a very serious disease. This article will discuss dog melanoma.
Symptoms
Two of the most visible symptoms of melanoma in dogs is the appearance of skin lesions with odd colors or shapes. Cancer that affects the mouth will cause coughing, drooling, bad breath, and difficulty swallow. Loss of appetite and weight are common. The toes may also develop tumors.
Diagnosis
The vet will initially perform a physical exam. In order to get a complete blood count, a blood sample will need to be drawn. An x-ray may also be necessary to check the condition of the lungs. The tumor should also be biopsied.
Treatment
Melanoma in dogs can be treated in various ways. Without treatment, the disease will progress rapidly. If tumors are present, they can be removed surgically. Sometimes, all of the tumor can’t be removed, so only part of it will be done. The other two treatment options for this disease include chemotherapy and radiation to reduce the size of the tumor.
Prognosis
This is a very serious disease. The outcome is usually poor. If only the skin is affected, the dog would have a better chance of survival. It’s possible for the cancer to spread even while your dog is receiving treatment. Also, this type of cancer can recur following successful treatment.
All owners should know their pet can fall victim to common illnesses in canines. You can read up on many different potential health problems at dog-illnesses.com. Click over right now.
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