Lymphoma is one of the most common types of cancers to strike dogs, accounting for 10 to 20 percent of all cancer cases. It strikes in lymph nodes throughout the body and often spreads to various tissues. Now, a new chemotherapy treatment called Tanovea (rabacfosadine injection) has been fully approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat the malignancy. Research has shown that the drug extends median survival rate by 2 months. In dogs who respond fully, the median survival rate increases by 5 to 6 months.
Tanovea is administered by injection up to five times, with injections spaced three weeks apart. Common side effects may include diarrhea, decreased appetite, vomiting, lethargy, and weight loss, and some dogs suffer more serious effects. People whose dogs get lymphoma should discuss the pluses and minuses with their veterinarian.
Signs of lymphoma you may notice on your own include hard, firm bumps on the underside of your dog’s neck or limbs that she finds painful. Any dog may be affected, but breeds reported to have a higher incidence of lymphoma include boxers, bull mastiffs, basset hounds, Saint Bernards, Scottish terriers, Airedales, and bulldogs.
