Question:
Is a spot of melanoma on a dog's outer lip usually eventually fatal even if removed?
Answer:
I don't know if the outer lip is considered oral melanoma, but my dog had a
tumor removed from inside his lip and the prognosis is generally not good,
even with removal. He had the mass removed and is currently undergoing
radiation and is participating in the DNA vaccine trial at the Animal
Medical Center. It is my understanding that there have been very good
results with this vaccine, so I'm hoping this opportunity gives my guy some
extra time.
According to information on the Animal Medical Center in NYC website:
http://www.amcny.org/department/ClinicalTrialsMelangreat50.htm
"Overview
Malignant melanomas are dangerous tumors which spread quickly and are
poorly responsive to standard therapies.
Treatment: Melanoma is usually treated with surgical removal of the primary
tumor. Treatment of more advanced melanoma might also include radiation
therapy, chemotherapy, and biological therapy (also called immunotherapy).
After Treatment: Because melanoma usually recurs or spreads even after
complete removal of the cancer, survival has been poor using current
available therapies (surgery, radiation and/or chemotherapy)."
If you are anywhere near NYC I would suggest exploring the possibility of
participating in this trial. The information is at the link above.
