Hemangiosarcomas are tumors derived from blood vessels within
the spleen. They have the appearance of a large blood clot which
at times can grow to the size of volley ball or spread to other
organs (metastasized) especially the liver. Older large dogs are
more commonly effected.
The first clinical signs may be related to rupture of the tumor
which causes bleeding into the abdomen resulting in a swollen
abdomen, anemia (lack of red blood cell), and collapse. Larger
tumors may cause swelling of the abdomen before rupture occurs
or produce signs of loss of appetite and vomiting.
Diagnosis is based on clinical signs and identifying the mass,
or where rupture has occurred free blood in the abdomen. Surgery
to remove the spleen (splenectomy) is a very effective treatment
provided the tumor has not already spread to other organs. Blood
tests to assess liver function may indicate possible spread prior
to surgery however examination of the other organs at surgery
is the ultimate assessment. Chemotherapy has been used successfully
to extend the life of dogs with hemangiosarcomas which have metastasized.
Related sites
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Amygdalin: Vitamin B17
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Immunotherapy
Acemannan
