Cancer: Oral Symptoms

Overview

Oral cancer is a term that refers to many different forms of cancer or tumors. It is also referred to as canine mouth cancer. Most of them are malignant ( have the potential to spread to other parts of body). The most common types of oral cancer in canines are malignant melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma and fibrosarcoma. All of these are malignant. The gums, mouth and pharynx are most commonly affected by oral cancer.

Clinical signs are very helpful in identifying oral cancer in dogs, but a biopsy (test of a tissue sample) is usually necessary as a confirmatory diagnosis. Surgical resection and radiation therapy is usually effective only if it is performed with care and by a specialist, so that chances of recurrence are almost null.

Canine Oral Cancer
Tumor in Dog Mouth
Source: Washington State University

Treatment:

Oral cancer should be evaluated for the odds of recovery before treatment. Surgical resection of cancerous cells is very effective, and may result in a complete recovery if a massive resection is carried out. Local recurrence however is common.

Radiation therapy is another effective way to treat canine oral cancer, but involves repeated and massive application of radiation. Radiation therapy along with surgical resection is most effective in improving the prognosis.

Squamous cell carcinomas, on the other hand have very poor prognosis, due to extensive metastasis e.g. can quickly spread to the tonsils.

Homeopathic Support:

As an added measure, there is a homeopathic approach to caring for a dog with cancer. While not a cure, it could provide an extra level of support for the dog's strained immune system. One product to research that is made specifically for this purpose is C-Caps Formula..