Mesothelioma in dogs.

Mesothelioma in dogs.

Mesotheliomas are rare tumors derived from cell tissue that lines the cavities and internal structures of the body. This lining is called the epithelial lining specifically Mesothelium. Mesothelial lining, specifically, is
membranous epithelial lining, which is derived from the mesoderm layer of cells, the basic functions of the line of the body cavity to cover and protect the internal organs, and to facilitate the movement of the body cavity (coelom).

Mesotheliomas result of abnormal division and replication of mesothelial cells and their migration to other sites in the body. This cellular behavior can occur in the chest cavity, abdominal cavity, pericardial sac around the heart, and male dogs in the scrotum. As a result, tumors often displace internal organs, causing symptoms of gastrointestinal or heart. Mesotheliomas also produce plenty of fluids, making tiny (cytologic) examination of fluid samples extremely important diagnostic tool.

The German Shepherd Dog is a breed most affected by mesotheliomas.

Symptoms and Types

Dyspnoea
Muffled heart, lung, and abdominal (tummy) sounds
Abdominal enlargement / swelling with fluid
Large scrotum
Exercise intolerance
Fatigue
Vomiting

Causes

Exposure to asbestos is a known cause of mesothelioma formation.

Diagnosis

Your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical exam on your dog, taking into account the background history of health, symptoms, and possible incidents that might precipitate this condition. Blood profile will be conducted, including a chemical blood profile, complete blood count, urinalysis A. X-rays of the chest and abdomen will be the most important diagnostic aid to confirm mesothelioma. X-ray and ultrasound can be used to show effusion (escape of fluid from the vessels) or tables in the body cavity, and pericardial sac (the lining around the heart).

Your doctor will also take a fluid sample for cytologic (microscopic) examination of the fluid. Exploratory surgery or laparoscopy (abdominal surgery) may be performed to remove the mesothelial cell mass lab testing.

Treatment

Most pets can be treated on an outpatient basis. If your dog is having trouble breathing, you need to provide a quiet place to relax, safe from work and everything else that would be one effort. If your dog has excess fluid in any body cavities as a result of mesothelioma in the chest or abdomen, the doctor will have to hospitalize a short period of time to drain these cavities. If fluid has collected in the pericardial sac will require surgery to relieve the pressure.