Chondrosarcoma (Nasal and Paranasal Sinus) in Dogs
Overview of Canine Nasal and Paranasal Sinus Chondrosarcoma in Dogs
Nasal and paranasal sinus chondrosarcoma are slow growing, progressive, invasive tumors of the nose, nasal cavity and surrounding communicating recesses that can occur in dogs.
As with most tumors, the cause is unknown. These tumors are seen more commonly in dogs than cats and are seen in all ages; however, they are most common in middle aged animals. Chondrosarcoma tends to develop at a younger age than other nasal tumors. There are no breed predilections.
What to Watch For
Symptoms of nasal and paranasal sinus chondrosarcoma in dogs may include:
- Nasal discharge
- Epistaxis (bleeding from the nose)
- Epiphora (tearing from the eyes)
- Sneezing
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- Anorexia
- Facial deformity
- Exophthalmia (bulging eye)
- Seizures (secondary to aggressive tumors invading the brain)
Diagnosis of Nasal and Paranasal Sinus Chrondosarcoma
- Complete blood cell count (CBC)
- Biochemical profile
- Urinalysis
- Chest X-rays
- Skull/nasal radiographs
- Nasal bacterial culture
- Computed tomography imaging (CT scan) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Rhinoscopy (scoping the nasal cavity) and biopsy
- Rhinotomy (cutting into the nasal cavity) and biopsy
- Biopsy is necessary for a definitive diagnosis
Treatment of Nasal and Paranasal Sinus Chrondrosarcoma
- Surgery in combination with radiation therapy
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Antibiotic therapy may be helpful in controlling secondary infection
- Anti-inflammatory drugs may help as temporary symptomatic therapy if more aggressive treatment is not pursued
Home Care and Prevention
Administer all medication and dietary recommendations as directed by your veterinarian. Follow up as directed.
If your dog’s condition does not improve or becomes worse, seek veterinary attention at once. Overall, nasal and paranasal sinus chondrosarcomas are very aggressive and carry a guarded prognosis.
There is no preventative care for chondrosarcoma.