Dr. Ashlyn Williams Presented the Third Summer Webinar
Lung cancer in dogs is not commonly discussed among veterinarians, according to ACCC’s oncologist Ashlyn Williams, DVM, Practice Limited to Oncology. However, she has seen an alarming rise in such cases recently at ACCC’s headquarters and Fort Lauderdale clinic and decided to prepare “The Cough That Broke the Camel’s Back: Canine Pulmonary Carcinoma” for the third webinar in the summer series, “How to Navigate Through the Cancer Diagnosis.”
A record number of primary care veterinarians from across Florida attended the August 20th talk, which can be reviewed in its entirety. Below are highlights from her presentation.
Lung tumors, said Dr. Williams, represent only about 1% of all canine cancers. When biopsied, these tumors are often more than 97% cancerous. In about 30% of cases, these tumors are discovered accidentally, during pre-dental thoracic radiographs, for example. Among the breeds more predisposed to lung cancer are Boxers, Beagles, and Bernese Mountain dogs.
Coughing and excessive panting could be symptoms related to lung cancer, but only diagnostic testing can result in a clearer finding. Other signs, common to other disease types as well, include lethargy or weight loss. As a side note, she mentioned that in cats an occasionally seen symptom can be swelling of the digits, when discharge may result or nails fall off, especially in cats 12 years old or older.
The location of a tumor is critical in determining surgical options. In about 77% of the cases, according to Dr. Williams, tumors are located in the center or periphery of one lung. In about 23% of the cases, the cancer will spread to the other lung or lymph nodes, but determining the proper treatment protocol rests with the size and stage of any tumors.
“Size does have an impact on prognosis,” stated Dr. Williams. “Therefore, conducting diagnostic tests can be critical.”
Tumors that are less than 3 centimeters and, of course, early detection, tend to result in better outcomes, she stressed.
Although each case is unique and multiple factors are considered, having a clear picture of the tumor size and grade is best for recommending a treatment process. In many situations, she explained, a combination of surgery and chemotherapy is often the best approach.
Diagnostic options include X-rays, CT scans, PET CT scans, and cytology. Regular X-rays, she said, are not always effective in identifying very small lung tumors and newer PET CT scans are not yet readily available. Imaging the abdominal area is a safe step and is also recommended in order to rule out other diseases, and biopsies help provide a more definitive diagnosis.
“We often achieve better outcomes when we have a clearer picture of the disease process,” she said. “If we go into surgery and aren’t aware of something, the pet may not do as well.”
Studies show an 85% improvement in pets post-surgery, reported Dr. Williams, but cautioned that complications are always a risk. She also reviewed numerous chemotherapy options available for pets, depending on the stage and other factors.
In summary, she emphasized the importance of early detection, staging, and a blend of surgery and chemotherapy to experience the best possible outcomes for a dog facing cancer.
For more information on treatment options available at ACCC, visit our CARE page or schedule a consultation with one of our oncology specialists.
Image Reference: https://canna-pet.com/articles/lung-cancer-dogs-signs-symptoms-treatments/
