Lymphoma in dogs can be mistaken for a variety of other medical conditions. These include reactive lesions such as Kikuchi lymphadenitis, infectious mononucleosis, autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome, and benign fatty lumps. It can also be mistaken for other forms of cancer, such as ehrlichiosis and tumors of macrophage/histiocytic origin. Additionally, it can be mistaken for general dog illnesses such as gastrointestinal issues or periodontal disease.
Can lymphoma be misdiagnosed dogs?
Yes, lymphoma can be misdiagnosed in dogs. Common misdiagnoses of canine lymphoma are canine ehrlichiosis, tumors of macrophage/histiocytic origin and lymphomas of T cell origin. Additionally, lymphoma can be mistaken for allergies or fungal infections when it occurs in the skin, and it can be misdiagnosed as other diseases when it occurs in the mouth. To confirm the diagnosis, a veterinarian will typically use a combination of clinical, morphological, immunophenotypical and molecular tests.
Are there any diseases that mimic lymphoma in dogs?
Yes, there are several diseases that can mimic lymphoma in dogs. These include infections, autoimmune disorders, drug hypersensitivity reactions, sarcoidosis, and amyloidosis. Additionally, benign etiologies of lymphadenopathy, such as abscesses, eosinophilic granulomas, and histiocytic sarcomas, can also mimic lymphoma in dogs. The only way to definitively diagnose lymphoma is through histopathology.
Is there anything that mimics lymphoma?
Yes, there are many conditions that can mimic lymphoma. These include indolent T-cell lymphoproliferative disorder, Helicobacter pylori infection, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, autoimmune disorders, EBV-infected lymphoid tissue, eczema, psoriasis, peripheral T-cell lymphomas, and DRESS syndrome.
Do swollen lymph nodes always mean dog cancer?
No, swollen or enlarged lymph nodes do not always mean cancer for dogs. There are many potential causes of swollen lymph nodes in dogs, including infections, allergies, immune-mediated diseases, and even normal aging. If your dog has swollen lymph nodes, it is important to get them checked by a veterinarian to determine the cause.