Signs, Test, & Treatment Options For Bone Tumors

When our pets feel ill or are facing serious health situations, it can be very stressful for the owner. We feel that the more information you know about what your pet is going through, the better you may help them and be prepared.

The four primary bone tumors are osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, fibrosarcoma, and hemangiosarcoma. 95% of bone tumors found in pets is osteosarcoma.

Signs & Symptoms

• Lameness and swelling of the affected bone.
• Generalized weakness.
• A swelling or mass is the first sign of a tumor, particularly the skull, jaw, and ribs.
• Respiratory difficulties with rib tumors.

Diagnostic Test

• Physical and orthopedic examination.
  
• Blood tests (complete blood count and serum biochemistry).
  
• Radiographs of the affected bone, chest radiographs.
• Computed tomography (CT) scans.
  
• Bone scan are recommended for dogs with a suspected primary bone tumor.

PHOTO: A whole-body bone scan of a dog with a tumor in the prostate. The bone scan shows multiple bright white areas, indicating of wide spread metastasis to bone.


Treatment Options

• Pain-killing drugs are usually effective initially, although stronger analgesic drugs or drug combinations may be required as the tumor progresses.
  
• Radiation therapy usually once weekly radiation for 3 to 4 weeks or once monthly.
• Surgery, the affected limb can be amputated if the bone tumor is very painful or fractured.

The vast majority of dogs will adapt very well after limb amputation, even if arthritic in other joints, overweight, or a large dog breed.

The photograph of the dog to the left was taken 6 months after a hind limb amputation for osteosarcoma.

This information was taken from the American College of Veterinary Surgery. More on bone tumors may be found in their article to pet owners by clicking here.

We hope you found this information helpful. If you have any questions, you may reach us at our office by calling 828.684.0019.