Liver and Spleen Cancer (Hemangiosarcoma) in Dogs

Spleen and Liver Hemangiosarcoma in Dogs

Hemangiosarcomas of the spleen and liver are highly metastatic and malignant vascular neoplasms (tumors in the blood vessels) that arise from the endothelial cells (the cells that line the interior surface of blood vessels). It begins as a large mass that develops in the liver or spleen, spreading rapidly through the blood cell routes, most frequently to the liver from the spleen, or to the lungs from the spleen and liver. In some cases, it can also metastasize to the brain or heart. It can also lead to growth of implantation lesions in the omentum, an apron type fold in the abdominal wall.

Hemangiosarcomas are fed by the blood vessels and fill with blood. Because of this, the tumor can rupture, leading to sudden and severe hemorrhage, collapse, and rapid death. Often, owners do not realize their dog is affected until the sudden hemorrhage or collapse.

In dogs, 0.3 to 2 percent of recorded tumors are found at necropsies; seven percent of all tumors are malignant; and about 50 percent are found in the spleen and five percent in the liver.

Some dog breeds are more disposed to this type of tumor, including German shepherds, boxers, great Danes, English setters, golden retrievers, and pointers. In addition, there may be a higher risk for male dogs. The average age of occurrence is 8 to 10 years, but it has been seen in dogs younger than one year of age.

Symptoms and Types

Symptoms are generally related to the organs involved; that is, a tumor of the spleen will result in impaired spleen function, and a tumor of the liver will result in impaired liver function. Other common symptoms include:

• Weight loss
• Weakness
• Lameness
• Intermittent collapse
• Muscle incoordination (ataxia)
• Partial loss of movement (paresis)
• Seizures
• Dementia
• Pale mucous membranes
• Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)
• Abdominal (peritoneal) fluid
• Palpable abdominal mass
• Acute blood loss (often fatal)

Causes

Cause is unknown.

Diagnosis

You will need to give a thorough history of your dog’s health leading up to the onset of symptoms, and as much detail as you can about the symptoms you have observed. The history you provide may give your veterinarian clues as to which organs are being affected. A complete blood profile will be conducted, including a chemical blood profile, a complete blood count, and a urinalysis. Findings can include anemia or a low blood platelet count.

Diagnostic imaging is one of the best methods for viewing the abdominal cavity and making an initial diagnosis. X-rays may reveal one or more abdominal masses, along with possible evidence of abdominal fluid. Thoracic radiography of the chest cavity can detect metastasis into the lungs. Ultrasonography can be used to reveals masses in the spleen and any liver involvement. Echocardiography may be performed in patients with evidence of fluid around the heart and may detect cardiac masses. Your doctor may also be able to use ultrasound to guide a fine needle to the tumor in order to take a tissue and fluid biopsy. An analysis of tissue taken directly from the tumor is the most conclusive method for making a diagnosis.