- Nasal cancer is relatively rare and only accounts for approximately 1 percent of all tumors founds in dogs. Unfortunately, approximately 80 percent of all nasal tumors are malignant (cancerous).
- Some of the most common symptoms of nasal cancer include abnormal nasal discharge, facial deformity from tumor growth, nasal bleeding, difficulty breathing, eye discharge and sneezing.
- Diagnosing a canine nasal tumor can involve several different tests including a physical exam, blood tests, X-rays, a biochemistry profile, a CT scan, a tissue biopsy and a urinalysis.
- Depending on the location and severity of the nasal tumor, there are several options available including surgery (rhinotomy), radiation therapy, photodynamic therapy and chemotherapy.
- Unfortunately, due to the high malignancy rates, nasal cancer often comes with a poor prognosis for most dogs. Untreated canines often die within seven months and those who do receive treatment may only live for an additional two years or less.
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