Feline lymphoma

[LisaK]

Tuxedo had an abdominal ultrasound and the ultrasound person (doctor?) said something is going on with his liver. My vet said this person said what he saw is indicative of lymphoma. Tux then had a needle aspirate and my vet is waiting for the cytology report. Is it possible to "see" lymphoma on an ultrsound? None of his other lymph nodes are swollen. Two SGPT (?) liver function tests were elevated, then he had a bile acid test which was normal. He gets extremely stressed when he has to travel in the car - this causes his blood sugar to skyrocket and evidently affected the liver test even tho that test is an enzyme test.

Tux is neutered, about 13 yrs old (maybe older - stray) and has FIV.

Thoughts?

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[Traci]

Sometimes it is possible to diagnose lymphoma on ultrasound, and based on concurrent chemistry profiles. Unfortunately, to be accurate, you will have to wait for the biopsy result. While ultrasounds are a useful tool to diagnose, where liver masses are concerned, one cannot always distinguish the type of mass, whether this be neoplasia, lymphoma, or fatty deposits, this is where the aspirate/biopsy will be confirmative. The pathologist also uses special stains to differentiate between various types of masses.

I'm sorry you're going through this Lisa, I'm sending Tux and you healing thoughts and prayers for a good outcome.....(((Hugs)))

[LisaK]

They didn't say there was a mass on the liver - I believe the liver looks "inflamed". Tux is taking Baytril to reduce the inflamation.

What freaks me out is that I lost my girl, Tara (GSD/Husky mix) to lympho (lymphosarcoma) Nov 14, 2000. She was diagnosed in July of '96, had chemo and lived for 4 yrs and 4 mos after. If Tux has lympho, I think this is too coincidental............there must be something in the soil or whatever (like Radon) that is causing this.

[Auntie Debbie]

I'm so sorry about your loss of Tara and that Tux isn't well. I will keep him in my prayers for the biopsy to bear good news.
I have some links on "Liver Diseases" and "Lymphoma", and "Cancer" and/or "Oncology" under both the Feline and Canine sections of my website (Debbie's Feline Health) listed directly under Favorites on the menu on the left side of the board that may be of interest.
I'm hoping for good post soon when you get the results.

[Traci]

They didn't say there was a mass on the liver - I believe the liver looks "inflamed". Tux is taking Baytril to reduce the inflamation.

Lisa, I should clarify. Sometimes areas of inflammation can appear as masses, or, that it is simply a term we use sometimes if it appears that way on film.

I remember Tara and some of your ordeal. But, as unexplainable as it may be, it is through no fault of your own, you must realize that. Sometimes we have no control over what will be, but that doesn't mean you can't focus on Tux as you did with your sweet Tara, concerning your options. I hesitate to jump the gun here until you get the results, but would rather offer encouragement that you must approach this with a positive attitude, no matter how difficult it may be.

I've been through this too, and it is a heartwrenching experience, to say the least. I just want you to know that no matter what, you can't place blame upon yourself or seek blame elsewhere. It is better to approach the situation with a clear and level head, with positive thinking, and armed with the love and devotion you have to your furbabies.

Don't give up, hang in there, and know that our thoughts are with you both...post an update when you can?