Canine multicentric lymphoma: Diagnosis, staging, treatment, and prognosis
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31533/pubvet.v20n4e1938Keywords:
Dogs, hematopoietic neoplasms, veterinary oncology, chemotherapyAbstract
The aim of this study was to address the main diagnostic methods, staging and substaging criteria, as well as the therapeutic options and prognosis of canine multicentric lymphoma (CML). CML is one of the most common hematopoietic neoplasms in dogs, accounting for approximately 7–24% of all canine neoplasms and about 85% of hematopoietic malignancies. It is a lymphoid-origin disorder characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation of lymphocytes at different stages of differentiation, with a multifactorial etiology involving genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and immunosuppression. Classification is based on clinical, histological, and immunophenotypic criteria, with the multicentric form being the most common clinical presentation. Diagnosis involves the association of clinical, cytopathological, histopathological, and molecular biology examinations. Staging assesses the extent of the disease, whereas substaging considers the presence or absence of systemic clinical signs. Polychemotherapy, especially the 19-week CHOP protocol, constitutes the treatment of first choice. In conclusion, canine multicentric lymphoma requires accurate diagnosis and an individualized therapeutic approach aimed at maximizing survival and maintaining patients’ quality of life.
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