Introduction to Feline Lymphoma Feline lymphoma, also known as lymphosarcoma (LSA), is a common cancer among middle-aged and older cats. This malignancy originates from the transformation of lymphocytes—a type of white blood cell—which includes both B-cells and T-cells. Lymphoma can affect various parts of a cat's body, including the skin, eyes, central nervous system (spine and brain), gastrointestinal tract, and lungs. Without treatment, lymphoma can quickly worsen; however, it generally responds well to chemotherapy, which can extend a cat's life by months or even years.
Causes of Lymphoma The exact causes of lymphoma in cats remain unknown. In some cases, the feline leukemia virus (FeLV) can trigger the disease. Although FeLV has become less common due to increased vaccination and indoor housing practices, environmental factors such as exposure to smoke may increase the risk of LSA. There is no clear breed or gender predisposition for feline lymphoma.
Symptoms of Lymphoma The symptoms of lymphoma vary depending on the affected area:
- Mediastinal form: Occurs in the chest and may cause breathing difficulties.
- Gastrointestinal form: Can involve any part of the stomach or intestines, leading to weight loss, lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. Physical examinations may detect abdominal masses.
- Other forms of lymphoma can cause skin lumps, sudden blindness, seizures, back pain, or shortness of breath. Fever, excessive drinking and urination, and abnormal bleeding are also possible.
Diagnostic Tests Lymphoma may be easier to diagnose if superficial lymph nodes are enlarged. For tumors in less accessible organs, diagnosis becomes more challenging and may involve:
- Complete blood count, biochemical profile, and urinalysis
- Fine needle aspiration of the lymph node or mass for cytological examination
- Imaging studies such as X-rays or ultrasound of involved organs
- Testing for FeLV
- Endoscopic examination and biopsy of the stomach and small intestine
- Specific tests to determine the type of lymphocytes involved (B-cells or T-cells)
Treatment Options Some cases might require surgery, particularly for the gastrointestinal form, to relieve intestinal blockage. Various chemotherapy protocols are available, including oral and injectable medications. Despite the cat appearing healthy, prompt treatment initiation is crucial as delays can significantly reduce survival times. The goal of treatment is to achieve a longer survival period and improve quality of life.
Post-Treatment Care Regular follow-ups to monitor the response to different chemotherapy protocols and manage any side effects are essential. Laboratory tests can track the progression of the disease and the impact of the medication. Regular imaging checks are also advisable to monitor internal organs.
Prognosis The prognosis depends on the type and aggressiveness of the lymphoma, how early it was diagnosed, and how it responds to treatment. Cats that complete chemotherapy with all symptoms resolved typically have a better prognosis. Generally, 30-40% of cats respond well to chemotherapy, potentially living two years or longer, while about 70% may enjoy a high quality of life for four to six months. However, cats diagnosed but untreated may only survive four to six weeks.
Lymphoma can develop resistance to drugs, making it challenging to manage if it recurs or spreads to other organs or systems. Ongoing research into new medications is vital to improving outcomes for affected cats.
In Summary Feline lymphoma is a serious and complex disease, but with early detection and appropriate treatment, many cats can lead extended, quality lives. Ongoing veterinary care, combined with supportive home care and attention to diet, plays a crucial role in managing this condition. Keeping open communication with your veterinarian will ensure the best care for your cat throughout its treatment and beyond.