Lymphoma, also known as lymphosarcoma (LSA), is a prevalent cancer in cats that affects the lymphocytes, which are integral to the immune system and are distributed throughout the feline body. Chemotherapy is the standard treatment for feline lymphoma, often leading to high remission rates and an extended life expectancy for our feline friends.
Which Cats are Prone to Feline Lymphoma?
Cats with feline leukemia virus (FeLV) are at a significantly higher risk of developing lymphoma, with their chances being 60 times greater than those of uninfected cats. Additionally, cats infected with feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) are also at an elevated risk, albeit to a lesser extent than those with FeLV.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Lymphoma in Cats
Given that lymphocytes and lymph tissue are ubiquitous in a cat’s body, lymphoma can manifest in various forms, affecting numerous organs. The specific location of the lymphoma often correlates with the symptoms experienced by the cat. Here’s a breakdown of the symptoms based on the affected anatomical site:
| Anatomic Site | Age | FeLV Status | Symptoms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multicentric (multiple organs affected) | Middle-older age | Usually (-) | Vary with organ(s) affected |
| Alimentary (digestive tract) | Middle-older (avg 8 yrs) age | Usually (-) | Loss of appetite, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea |
| Mediastinal (lymph nodes in the chest) | Young (avg 2-3 yrs) age | Usually (+) | Rapid breathing, difficulty breathing |
| Renal (kidney) | Middle age | May be (+) | Loss of appetite, depression, increased thirst and urination |
| Spinal | Young-middle age | Usually (+) | Hindlimb weakness and paralysis |
| Nasal | Middle-older age | Usually (-) | Nasal discharge, nose bleeds, facial swelling, sneezing |
Diagnosing Lymphoma in Cats
The diagnosis of feline lymphoma is rooted in a physical examination and the microscopic examination of biopsied tissues or cells from the affected areas. This process confirms the presence of lymphoma and aids in determining the cancer’s aggressiveness, which is crucial for treatment planning and prognosis. Diagnostic tools may include a complete blood count, serum chemistry, urinalysis, radiographs (X-rays), and/or ultrasound examinations. FeLV and FIV testing can uncover underlying infections that influence the prognosis. The PARR test assists in differentiating lymphoma from other diseases, and bone marrow samples may be examined in certain cases.
Treating Feline Lymphoma
Chemotherapy forms the cornerstone of feline lymphoma treatment, typically involving a combination of drugs administered over several weeks. The chemotherapy regimen may consist of chlorambucil, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, L-asparginase, and prednisolone or prednisone. In some instances, such as with nasal lymphoma, radiation therapy may