Question:
Our ten year old Golden has suddenly developed very swollen lymph nodes all
over his body. They vary in size from a walnut to a lemon. We did not
notice anything 2 weeks ago, but the number of glands and the degree of
swelling has increased greatly this last week. Just prior to our noticing
the swelling, he was given a nasal immunization against kennel cough. I
don't know if this could be related, but I mention it anyway.
Our vet is 98% certain that it is cancer of the lymph nodes. We have not
done a biopsy, but she is very certain of the disease. The dog does not
show fever or any sign of infection. His energy is good and he eats and
drinks normally.
Is it possible that this could be something else besides cancer? If it is
cancer, what can we do to help our pup? We welcome your suggestions.
Thanks!
Answer:
Would you vet be willing to do a needle aspiration of one of the nodules?
I don't know if I would do a full biopsy, as if it is lymphoma, there is
not all that much that can be done, and there is no reason to put the dog
through the bother of taking the lumps off. But I would ask about doing a
needle aspiration.
Lymphoma is a bad cancer. You can do chemo, and get maybe 6-12 months with
it. Do you know your dog's pedigree? There is some evidence that lymphoma
has an inherited component, and that it shows up in some lines more than
in others.
