Metastatic Neoplasia (Cancer) in Dogs

Metastatic Neoplasia (Cancer) in Dogs

By: Dr. Erika DePapp

Section: Overview

Metastatic neoplasia is cancer that has spread from its original site to other sites in the body. The lungs and local lymph nodes are common sites of metastasis for many tumor types, but metastases can occur in almost any organ and are associated with malignant tumors.

Metastasis occurs by spread of cancer cells either through the bloodstream, or via the lymphatic system (an important part of the immune system). The impact on your pet will depend on where the primary tumor is located, and where the metastases are located.

What to Watch For

  • Weakness
  • Coughing
  • Weight loss
  • Loss of appetite
  • Changes in waterFresh Flow Pet Fountain
    Pets are naturally attracted to fresh flowing water. This unique silent fountain won’t scare your pet when drinking from bowl or ramp. Ultra Qui...
    consumption
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Lameness
  • Lumps on or under the skin
  • Abnormal behavior

    Diagnosis

    The diagnosis of metastatic disease depends on finding a primary tumor as well as evidence of spread of the tumor to other sites within the body.
    The work-up will vary with the tumor type. Tests which may commonly be performed include:

  • History and physical exam
  • Complete blood count (CBC)
  • Biochemical profile
  • Urinalysis
  • Abdominal ultrasound
  • Fine needle aspirate of masses or enlarged lymph nodes
  • Biopsy
  • Radiographs (x-rays). Radiographs of the chest will sometimes show evidence of metastatic disease, even before the primary tumor has been discovered.

    Treatment

    Chemotherapy and/or surgery are often helpful in slowing down progression of cancer. Unfortunately, when there is already evidence of metastatic disease at the time of diagnosis, the prognosis is grave and response to chemotherapy may be poor.

    Supportive care may consist of supplemental nutrition, fluid therapy, treatment of secondary infections, and painBiocaine 4oz
    Tomlyn Biocaine (4 oz) is a First Aid Lotion for dogs and cats relieves pain and stops wound chewing, licking and scratching. Painless and soothing to...
    medication.

    Home Care and Prevention

    Give all medications as directed by your veterinarian. Monitor your pet for increasing lethargy, weight loss, respiratory difficulties, anorexia and worsening of the original clinical signs of illness.

    Early recognition and treatment of cancer may reduce the risk of developing metastatic disease. Signs of illness that don't resolve within a few days, weight loss, and new lumps on your pet should be brought to the attention of your veterinarian as early as possible.

     
    Printable Version
     
    Have a Pet Question?
    Send Your Pet Question to Dr. Jon
    and His Staff of Veterinarians Ask Dr. Jon
    Dr. Jon's Newsletter
    Yes! Send Me the Latest Health Information, Pet Tips, Pet Stories and more...
     
     

    Related Articles

    • 1 Castration in Dogs

      Castration (orchiectomy) is a surgical procedure in which the testicles are removed from the body. It is performed most commonly to make pets unable to breed, thus helping to control pet overpopulation. ...

      Read MoreRead More
    • 2 What is Cancer in Dogs?

      Cancer (neoplasia)is a transformation of normal cells into abnormal (malignant) cells. Cancer can develop in virtually any organ or body system, and some cancers spread or metastasize to other areas of...

      Read MoreRead More
    • 3 Chest Radiograph (X-ray) in Dogs

      A chest radiograph (X-ray) is a procedure that allows your veterinarian to visualize tissue, organs and bones that lie beneath the skin of the chest cavity.

      Read MoreRead More
  • Related Articles
    • 1Castration in Dogs

      Castration (orchiectomy) is a surgical procedure in which the testicles are removed from the body. It is performed most commonly to make pets unable to breed, thus helping to control pet overpopulation. ...

      Read MoreRead More
    • 2What is Cancer in Dogs?

      Cancer (neoplasia)is a transformation of normal cells into abnormal (malignant) cells. Cancer can develop in virtually any organ or body system, and some cancers spread or metastasize to other areas of...

      Read MoreRead More
    • 3Chest Radiograph (X-ray) in Dogs

      A chest radiograph (X-ray) is a procedure that allows your veterinarian to visualize tissue, organs and bones that lie beneath the skin of the chest cavity.

      Read MoreRead More
     

    Over 10,000 Veterinarian Approved Articles

    Related Articles
    • 1Castration in Dogs

      Castration (orchiectomy) is a surgical procedure in which the testicles are removed from the body. It is performed most commonly to make pets unable to breed, thus helping to control pet overpopulation. ...

      Read MoreRead More
    • 2What is Cancer in Dogs?

      Cancer (neoplasia)is a transformation of normal cells into abnormal (malignant) cells. Cancer can develop in virtually any organ or body system, and some cancers spread or metastasize to other areas of...

      Read MoreRead More
    • 3Chest Radiograph (X-ray) in Dogs

      A chest radiograph (X-ray) is a procedure that allows your veterinarian to visualize tissue, organs and bones that lie beneath the skin of the chest cavity.

      Read MoreRead More