Canine Osteosarcoma
Canine osteosarcoma is a tumor that can develop in any bone, but affects the limbs in most cases. Larger dogs have a far greater risk of developing this type of cancer. The disease normally affects middle-aged to older dogs, but has been known to affect younger dogs as well.
Causes
Canine osteosarcoma can be caused by various things. Two of the most common causes include chemical carcinogens and radiation. Foreign metal objects inside your dog may also cause him to develop canine osteosarcoma. Abnormalities such as healed bone fractures are also a common cause.
Symptoms
The most common sign of canine osteosarcoma is lameness in the affected limb. The tumor develops deep inside the bone and causes more pain as it grows. You may also notice swelling as the tumor grows and replaces normal bone.
Diagnosis
The veterinarian will first take an x-ray to try to determine the cause of your dog’s lameness. If nothing can be determined from the x-ray, then a biopsy may be performed. A small area of bone will be removed and sent to the lab for analysis. This is the most definitive method of diagnosis.
Treatment
Canine osteosarcoma causes severe pain as the tumor grows. Therefore, treatment involves trying to limit spread of the disease as well as limit the amount of pain your dog suffers. Chemotherapy and radiation are the main methods of treatment. If your dog experiences too much pain, amputation of the affected limb may be necessary. Some vets advise for euthanasia in cases of severe pain.
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