Dog Nasal Planum Cancer

The nasal planum is simply the tip of a dog’s nose. Most malignancies in that area are associated with ultraviolet light exposure and lack of pigment. Most commonly this type of Dog Cancer will be a Dog Squamous Cell Carcinoma. There are three types of squamous cells, some are localized, some superficial and others are deeply infiltrated into the affected area. It is more commonly found in older cats than in dogs.

Signs and Symptoms

The progression of invasive tumors will evolve over prolonged periods. It could be several months to years before it becomes noticeable. In dogs the tumors usually originate in the nostril or the external planum. As soon as the dog’s owner notices any type of mass, treatment should be sought as quickly as possible.

Diagnosis

An immediate examination by the veterinarian is in order. Due to the sensitivity of the nose, your dog may be briefly anesthetized as the vet performs a wedge biopsy. Advanced radiological techniques such as CT scans or MRI have been very useful in detecting just how invasive the tumors have become. With the proper studies performed, you vet can map out a better course of treatment for your dog.

Treatment

Surgery is the most common method of treatment for invasive tumors. Those that are basically superficial can have laser treatment, cryosurgery, phototherapy or Dog Cancer Chemotherapy. Dog Radiation Therapy may also be used in some instances. Surgery will be used if the cancer has not spread to the surrounding tissue. If the tumor cannot be removed with surgery, radiation therapy will follow the surgery.

Prognosis

The noninvasive squamous cell tumors have a very good prognosis. If however, the tumor has grown into other areas, aggressive surgery is in order. Your dog will be able to enjoy a very long and happy life after their treatment is successful.

Prevention

Limiting your dog’s exposure to direct sunlight is the primary method of prevention that dog owners can utilize at home. This is especially true in dogs that have minimal color on their nose. By limiting exposure to precancerous growths, the progression of the lesion can be prolonged. Human sunscreens do not work very well on dogs, especially in that area. Dog’s can easily lick the sunscreen off and ingest it, making them ill.

Pain management

All cancers will cause some degree of pain for your dog. There will be more Dog Pain after the procedures to remove the cancer. Your vet will likely prescribe some type of pain medication that you should administer as directed. Keeping your dog comfortable will improve recovery. Constant pain will cause your dog to experience a Dog Loss of Appetite as well as significant mood changes.

Nutrition

Pain will decrease appetite. Having pain on the nose will certainly decrease your dog’s ability to eat an adequate Dog Diet. In order to maintain a healthy body during the course of the disease and the treatment, your veterinarian will most likely order special Dog Cancer Diets for your dog to eat. If your dog cannot tolerate normal foods, you may have to develop a different pattern to maintain nutritional support. Whatever it takes to keep your dog nutritionally stable will have to be done.

Significant Dog Weight Loss will occur in dogs during the progression of the disease and the treatment.

Suggested Products

Cancer Support Kit for Dogs
Nu-Pet Vitamin and Antioxidant Wafers
Multi Essential Dog Vitamins