What is lymphoma? Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphocytes. Lymphocytes are cells involved in the immune system and travel throughout the body in the blood and lymphatic vessels; therefore, lymphoma is always considered to be a systemic, not localized, disease. Lymphoma is connected with feline leukemia, a viral infection (see handout Feline Leukemia Virus Disease Complex). More cats are ...
Feline lymphoma is a malignant cancer of the lymphatic system, the exquisitely structured arrangement of internal organs and tissues that directly or indirectly influences virtually every aspect of a cats physical existence. Unfortunately, says Margaret McEntee, DVM, professor of oncology at Cornell Universitys College of Veterinary Medicine, it is the most frequently diagnosed among all ...
Lymphoma is one of the most common cancers diagnosed in cats. It is a cancer of the lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) and lymphoid tissues. Lymphoid tissue is normally present in many places in the body, including lymph nodes, spleen, liver, gastrointestinal tract, and bone marrow.
What causes lymphoma? Both infection with feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) can be underlying or predisposing causes of lymphoma in cats. A lowered immune system, genetic predisposition (Oriental breeds) and environmental toxins, such as cigarette smoke, may also increase a cats risk of developing lymphoma.
Lymphoma is a common cancer diagnosed in cats. Historically, it was associated with feline retroviruses, feline leukemia virus (FeLV), and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). Since vaccinations have controlled the prevalence of these diseases, we have seen an overall decline in the prevalence of lymphoma in cats.
As we can see from the illustration, Lymphoma In Cats With Viral Disease has many fascinating aspects to explore.
Requires Ongoing Medication: Yes Vaccine Available: No, but feline leukemia virus (FeLV) has been associated with some lymphomas and a vaccine does exist for FeLV for at-risk cats. Treatment Options: Because lymphoma can be located almost anywhere in the body, treatment depends on where it is and what system is involved.
Infection with viruses such as FeLV or FIV have been associated with the development of lymphoma in cats. Though, now with routine vaccination and a better understanding of these diseases, viral-induced lymphomas are much less common.
