Bone cancer-osteosarcoma
Bone cancer originates from the cells that form bone tissue. In dogs it mainly involves the legs of the limbs; front or hind. It is seen more often in large and giant breed dogs. Age is a factor. In giant breed dogs it can start at a younger age than other breeds, in which it is more commonly seen during their middle to senior years.
What are the signs of osteosarcoma?
Lameness, leg pain, swelling of part of the leg all can be signs of osteosarcoma. At the onset lameness may be the only symptom, but swelling appears as the disease progresses and the bone structure weakens.
How it osteosarcoma diagnosed?
The most common diagnosis is by X-ray (radiograph) of the affected limb. On radiographic pictures there is loss of normal bone structure, or what is commonly referred to as lytic lesions. The veterinarian will usually accompany X-ray of the limb with chest X-rays because this type of cancer frequently metastasizes to lung tissue. Other tests, such as blood profile and urine analysis are recommended to get an overall picture of the patient's health.
The next step in diagnostics is a bone biopsy, which is done under anesthesia. A fine needle aspirate to obtain a small number of cells from the bone may be an alternative procedure.
Treatment Goals for Osteosarcoma
Pain control is a part of any recommended treatment for this disease. The patient's comfort dictates the quality of life. Pain medications and anti-inflammatory medications are given. Restricted activity is recommended, not just to control pain, but to help prevent fracture of the weakened bone. Some animals benefit for amputation of the limb or radiation therapy along with infusions of bisphosphonate (a drug used to treat human bone cancer), or a combination of surgery followed by chemotherapy.
Can a dog live without a limb?
The answer is yes. Dogs are very resilient and can adapt to walking on three legs. As proof of this, visit YouTube or Instagram and watch hundreds of proud pet owner videos of the tripod canines!
What is the prognosis for a dog with Osteosarcoma?
Many dogs with osteosarcoma go undetected for months or more before an official diagnosis is made, but once the disease has progressed the survival is months to a year or more.
At DR 4 PETS we encourage pet owners to educate themselves on pet diseases, exercise prevention, treat conditions as soon as and as feasible as possible so that your pet enjoys life to the fullest; but we are there for you when the end-of-life has come. We service these areas in California:
Give us a call: (085) 494-3339
