Skin cancer in dogs includes any uncontrolled growth of cells of the skin or associated structures such as glands, hair follicles and supportive tissues. The skin is a common site of cancer in dogs and cats. However, skin tumors in dogs are more likely to be benign than those in cats. Skin cancer most often occurs in dogs that are middle-aged or older.  Breeds of dogs that have been found to have a higher incidence of skin cancer include boxers, Scottish terriers, bull mastiffs, Basset hounds, Weimaraners, Kerry blue terriers and Norwegian elkhounds.

The cause of most skin cancers is unknown but seems to be associated with exposure to the sun. Skin cancers are divided into four categories, depending upon the cell type. These categories are epithelial tumors, mesenchymal tumors, round cell tumors and melanomas.

In dogs, the most common tumors are lipomas, mast cell tumors, sebaceous gland adenomas/hyperplasia and papillomas. Most skin cancers appear as a lump in or underneath the skin or as a sore that does not heal. Animals with skin cancer may experience discomfort or itchiness. There may also be redness to the skin or a flaky appearance. If you have concerns about possible skin cancer in your pet, you should schedule an appointment with his doctor. Your vet will probably do one or all of the following tests: cytology examination of cells obtained from an aspirate of the tumor or a biopsy, a biopsy of portion of the tumor, complete blood count, blood chemistry panel, and a urinalysis.

The good news is that the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine is having success with an anti-cancer vaccine for dogs diagnosed with melanoma. Though it is still an experimental treatment, it has shown promising results.  About 40 percent of dogs with a melanoma tumor present responded to a vaccine created from actual melanoma tumor cells. In about 12.5 percent of the treated dogs, the tumor completely disappeared. According to Kurzman (a researcher in the veterinary medical school's oncology section), the vaccine is created from dog melanoma cells that are grown in the laboratory. The cells are treated so they can no longer divide and cause a tumor. DNA is then inserted into these cells, which directs the cells to secrete an immune stimulant. This combination of cells and immune stimulant, when administered as an injection into the patient's skin, has been shown to stimulate the immune system to specifically fight against the melanoma cells.

You can learn more about the program or to provide support for its continued growth by contacting the UW-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine's Advancement Office at (608) 263-5152. Or see additional information on-line at eMax Health.

Canine Cancer Vaccine

Posted by Barbara.