Laryngeal neoplasia in dogs and cats
Neoplasms originating from the larynx are uncommon in dogs and cats. More commonly, tumors originating in tissues adjacent to the larynx, such as thyroid carcinoma and lymphoma, compress or invade the larynx and distort normal laryngeal structures. Clinical signs of extrathoracic (upper) airway obstruction result. Laryngeal tumors include carcinoma (squamous cell, undifferentiated, and adenocarcinoma), lymphoma, melanoma, mast cell tumors and other sarcomas, and benign neoplasia. Lymphoma is the most common tumor in cats.
The clinical signs of laryngeal neoplasia are similar to those of other laryngeal diseases and include noisy respiration, stridor, increased inspiratory efforts, cyanosis, syncope, and a change in bark or meow. Mass lesions can also cause concurrent dysphagia, aspiration pneumonia, or visible or palpable masses in the ventral neck.
Extralaryngeal mass lesions are often identified by palpation of the neck. Primary laryngeal tumors are rarely palpable and are best identified by laryngoscopy. Laryngeal radiographs, ultrasonography, or computed tomography can be useful in assessing the extent of the disease. Differential diagnoses include obstructing laryngitis, nasopharyngeal polyp, foreign body, traumatic granuloma, and abscess. For a definitive diagnosis of neoplasia to be made, histologic or cystologic examination of a biopsy specimen of the mass must be done. A diagnosis of malignant neoplasia should not be made on the basis of the gross appearance alone.
The therapy used depends on the type of tumor identified histologically. Bening tumors should be excised surgically if possible. Complete surgical excision of malignant tumors is rarely possible, although ventilation may be improved and time may be gained to allow other treatments such as irradiation or chemotherapy to become effective. Complete laryngectomy and permanent tracheostomy can be considered in select animals.
The prognosis in animals with bening tumors is excellent if the tumors can be totally resected. Malignant neoplasms are associated with a poor prognosis.
We would love to hear your pet's story. Please add a comment.
The clinical signs of laryngeal neoplasia are similar to those of other laryngeal diseases and include noisy respiration, stridor, increased inspiratory efforts, cyanosis, syncope, and a change in bark or meow. Mass lesions can also cause concurrent dysphagia, aspiration pneumonia, or visible or palpable masses in the ventral neck.
Extralaryngeal mass lesions are often identified by palpation of the neck. Primary laryngeal tumors are rarely palpable and are best identified by laryngoscopy. Laryngeal radiographs, ultrasonography, or computed tomography can be useful in assessing the extent of the disease. Differential diagnoses include obstructing laryngitis, nasopharyngeal polyp, foreign body, traumatic granuloma, and abscess. For a definitive diagnosis of neoplasia to be made, histologic or cystologic examination of a biopsy specimen of the mass must be done. A diagnosis of malignant neoplasia should not be made on the basis of the gross appearance alone.
The therapy used depends on the type of tumor identified histologically. Bening tumors should be excised surgically if possible. Complete surgical excision of malignant tumors is rarely possible, although ventilation may be improved and time may be gained to allow other treatments such as irradiation or chemotherapy to become effective. Complete laryngectomy and permanent tracheostomy can be considered in select animals.
The prognosis in animals with bening tumors is excellent if the tumors can be totally resected. Malignant neoplasms are associated with a poor prognosis.
We would love to hear your pet's story. Please add a comment.
MORE VETERINARY ARTICLES
-
The profile of the Bichon Frise shows that it ranks fairly high on obedience training and low on aggression, so this breed may appeal to peo...
-
Clinical signs of acute renal failure symptoms (ARF) are often nonspecific and include lethargy, depression, anorexia, vomiting , diarrhea...
-
Canine diabetes symptoms and treatment Canine diabetes is characterized by absolute or relative lack of insulin action and it affects app...
-
It is very important to start treatment for dog with arthritis as soon as possible. Medical treatment usually includes immunosuppressive dr...
-
Giardia in dogs - symptoms and treatment Giardia in dogs is caused by a protozoan, Giardia spp. Animals are infected when they ingest cyst...
-
Dog food ratings Factors in selecting dog food: - Dog's age - Mature body size - Activity level - Reproductive status - Lifestyle - Bree...
-
The Doberman Pinscher is the epitome of the guard dog and disciplined protector. It is top ranked on ease of housebreaking and is second fro...
-
The strength and regularity of the peripheral arterial pressure waves and the pulse rate are assessed by palpation of the femoral or other p...
-
It is easier for the body to prevent edema fluid from forming that it is to mobilize existing fluid. The initial management of treating pulm...
-
Brand Name Glucotrol (Pfizer) Generic Name Glipizide What is the most important information I should know about glipizide : Glipizide ...