Hemangiosarcoma is one of the most aggressive and devastating cancers that affect dogs, particularly certain breeds. This cancer originates in the blood vessels and often goes undetected until it reaches an advanced stage, making early diagnosis and treatment challenging. This blog will provide a comprehensive look at hemangiosarcoma, including its causes, symptoms, prevalence, and available treatment options.

What is Hemangiosarcoma?

Hemangiosarcoma is a malignant cancer that originates in the endothelial cells lining blood vessels. Because blood vessels exist throughout the body, this cancer can develop in various organs, but the most common locations include:

  • Spleen (splenic hemangiosarcoma)
  • Heart (cardiac hemangiosarcoma)
  • Liver
  • Skin and soft tissues

This type of cancer is highly aggressive, often spreading (metastasizing) to other parts of the body before symptoms appear.

Breeds at Higher Risk

While hemangiosarcoma can affect any dog, certain breeds are predisposed to developing this cancer. Breeds most commonly affected include:

  • Golden Retrievers
  • German Shepherds
  • Labrador Retrievers
  • Boxers
  • Portuguese Water Dogs
  • Doberman Pinschers

The genetic component of this disease is still being researched, but studies indicate that these breeds have a higher susceptibility due to hereditary factors.

Symptoms of Hemangiosarcoma

One of the most dangerous aspects of hemangiosarcoma is that it often remains undetected until it has progressed significantly. The symptoms may appear suddenly and include:

  • Lethargy and weakness
  • Pale gums (a sign of internal bleeding)
  • Abdominal swelling or bloating
  • Collapse or sudden episodes of fainting
  • Rapid breathing or difficulty breathing
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Dark, tarry stools (a sign of internal bleeding)

Because these symptoms often arise suddenly due to tumor rupture, early detection is difficult, emphasizing the need for routine veterinary checkups, especially for at-risk breeds.

Prevalence and Survival Statistics

Hemangiosarcoma is one of the most common cancers in dogs, accounting for approximately 5-7% of all canine cancers. It is estimated that one in five Golden Retrievers will develop this cancer during their lifetime.

  • Survival rates vary significantly based on diagnosis and treatment:
    • Without treatment: Most dogs survive only days to weeks after diagnosis.
    • With surgery alone: The median survival time is 1-3 months.
    • With surgery and chemotherapy: The median survival time increases to 6-9 months.
    • Newer treatments, including immunotherapy, have shown promise in extending survival further.

Despite advancements in veterinary oncology, hemangiosarcoma remains a challenging cancer to treat effectively due to its aggressive nature.

Diagnostic Methods

Because hemangiosarcoma is often asymptomatic until it reaches an advanced stage, regular veterinary checkups are crucial. Diagnostic methods include:

  • Ultrasound and X-rays: Can help detect tumors in the spleen, heart, or liver.
  • Echocardiograms: Useful for diagnosing cardiac hemangiosarcoma.
  • Blood tests: May indicate anemia due to internal bleeding.
  • Fine-needle aspiration or biopsy: Helps confirm the presence of cancerous cells.

Treatment Options for Hemangiosarcoma

While hemangiosarcoma is aggressive, various treatment approaches can help improve a dog’s quality of life and extend survival time.

1. Surgery

  • Splenectomy (removal of the spleen) is the most common surgical option for splenic hemangiosarcoma. This can help stabilize the dog, but surgery alone is rarely curative.
  • Tumor removal from the heart or liver is more complex and requires specialized veterinary oncology expertise.

2. Chemotherapy

Since hemangiosarcoma metastasizes quickly, chemotherapy is often recommended after surgery to slow the spread of cancer.

  • Doxorubicin-based chemotherapy is the most commonly used drug.
  • Metronomic chemotherapy (low-dose, continuous chemotherapy) is being studied for its ability to slow tumor progression.

3. Immunotherapy and New Treatments

  • Immunotherapy is an emerging field in veterinary oncology that uses the body’s immune system to attack cancer cells.
  • Clinical trials are investigating novel treatments, including targeted therapies and cancer vaccines.

4. Palliative Care

If treatment is not pursued, palliative care can help manage symptoms and maintain a good quality of life for as long as possible.

  • Pain management with NSAIDs or opioids.
  • Supportive care such as fluid therapy and nutritional support.
  • Holistic therapies like acupuncture or CBD oil to improve comfort.

Preventive Measures and Early Detection

Although there is no guaranteed way to prevent hemangiosarcoma, some measures may reduce risk:

  • Regular veterinary checkups to catch potential issues early.
  • Ultrasounds and screenings for high-risk breeds.
  • A healthy diet and regular exercise to maintain overall well-being.
  • Antioxidant-rich supplements that may help support cellular health.

 

Hemangiosarcoma is one of the most challenging cancers for dogs and their guardians to face. While it is an aggressive and often fatal disease, early detection, combined with surgery, chemotherapy, and new treatment approaches, can extend a dog’s life and improve their quality of life. Pet Guardians should remain vigilant, particularly if they own high-risk breeds, and consult with veterinarians regularly to catch potential health concerns as early as possible.

By increasing awareness and supporting advancements in veterinary oncology, we can work toward better treatment options and hope for dogs affected by this devastating disease.