Hemangiomas, hemangiosarcomas, and lymphomas are common tumors of the spleen in dogs living in Hawaii and elsewhere.
Splenic cancer is an all-too-common and aggressive condition in dogs, particularly in breeds like Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and “doodle” breeds. We frequently see pets with this condition in our Oahu practice. The spleen, an organ involved in filtering blood and supporting the immune system, can become the site of tumors that pose serious health risks. The most common tumors of the spleen include hemangioma, hemangiosarcoma, and lymphoma. The long term prognosis depends on the specific tumor, but the symptoms are very similar.
Recognizing the Symptoms
One of the most concerning aspects of splenic cancer is how quietly it can develop. Often, symptoms only become evident when the tumor begins to bleed. If your dog is experiencing weakness, sudden collapse, or abdominal swelling, you should seek immediate medical attention. If it is after hours, contact one of the 24 hour emergency facilities located on Oahu. Pale gums or unexplained weight loss may be other red flags.
Diagnostic Approaches
Given the stealthy nature of splenic tumors, diagnosing them before they cause symptoms is challenging. A thorough physical exam and history is the first step, but due to the internal nature of these tumors, more detailed imaging is often required. Radiographs (X-rays), ultrasound (US), and advanced imaging like CT scans or MRI could spot tumors that might be hidden during a routine exam. Bloodwork may detect anemia from bleeding. A biopsy may also be necessary to determine whether a tumor is malignant and to plan the best course of treatment.
Treatment Options
The primary treatment for splenic tumors is surgical removal, which can be life-saving, especially if the tumor has already started to bleed. Surgery usually involves removing the spleen, a procedure known as a splenectomy. In some cases, chemotherapy may be recommended following surgery. If this is an option you are considering for your dog, it is worth consulting with one of the veterinary oncologists located in Hawaii so that you can get a complete picture of the cost, benefits, and risks. Regardless of the next step chosen, at Arms of Aloha we often see dogs in our practice for palliative care and end of life planning following the initial surgery. Our doctors can help you manage symptoms like abdominal pain or nausea, improving your dog’s quality of life. We can also help you make a “crisis plan” for when bleeding recurs, which unfortunately is almost inevitable if the tumor has already spread to other organs.
Prevention and Early Detection
While preventing splenic tumors altogether is not currently possible, early detection is key to improving outcomes. Regular veterinary checkups are crucial, especially for breeds that are predisposed to this type of cancer. Since physical exams alone may not reveal a developing tumor, periodic imaging studies such as X-rays (not very sensitive), ultrasound, or even CT scans and MRI could aid in early detection. This is not a routine recommendation due to the cost and potential stress to the patient, but if your dog is a breed at risk for splenic tumors, it may be worth a conversation with your veterinarian about whether screening makes sense.
Splenic cancer is a serious condition, but with early detection and prompt treatment, many dogs can enjoy a good quality of life. Regular vet visits and being vigilant about any changes in your dog’s health are your best tools in the fight against this challenging disease.
Arms of Aloha can help!
If you live on Oahu, we can be your guide in providing the best care and planning for your chronically ill or senior pet. Contact us today at 808-435-3006 or learn more about the services we offer at armsofaloha.com.