Dog Brain Tumor Symptoms

Overview

Dog Brain Tumor symptoms are most often seen in older dogs, although they can affect younger dogs. If an older dog has a seizure it could have a brain tumor. The most common tumor types are called astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas and meningiomas. Tumors or lesions tend to be at multiple sites on the brain. Other causes of canine seizures include low blood sugar or heart problems.

Canine Brain Tumor by Breed

Boxers and Boston Terriers are predisposed to pituitary and glial cell tumors.

Breeds with a long nose such as Doberman Pinschers, Scottish Terriers and Golden Retrievers have a predisposition to meningiomas.

Dog Brain Tumor Symptoms

Canine brain tumor symptoms tend to vary based on where in the brain the tumor is growing. Your dog may not have any symptoms during the beginning of tumor growth with the body adjusting to changes caused by the tumor. When the tumor gets large, the body can no longer adjust, causing symptoms.

Symptoms can include changes in behavior, intelligence or blindness.

Diagnosis of Canine Brain Tumor

Diagnosis of a canine brain tumor requires a MRI or CT (computed tomography) scan. Each test has higher effectiveness at detecting different types of tumors. Tests will include a complete blood chemistry profile and urinalysis to rule out other causes of symptoms. The only way to be certain that a brain tumor exists is to take a biopsy (sample) and then test in the lab.

Treatment of Dog Brain Tumor Symptoms

Brain tumor treatment methods are designed to:

1. Control swelling (edema) and pressure on the brain
2. Control seizures

Canine Brain tumors can be treated with radiation, chemotherapy or removal through surgery. Removing a canine brain tumor is difficult depending on the location and size of the tumor.

Dogs that are exposed to radiation therapy can live at least a year after treatment. Your veterinarian may also give your dog prednisone (corticosteroid) if there is any brain swelling. Canine seizures are treated with Phenobarbital.

Prognosis of Canine Brain Tumor

Without treatment a dog with a canine brain tumor can survive up to several months. With treatment, the median survival time is 6 - 10 months. Dogs that are treated with both surgery and radiation live longer than if only one method is applied, with an expected life span of up to 16 months.

Sources

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