Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Feline alimentary lymphoma
- Journal:
- Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery
- Year:
- 2012
- Authors:
- Barrs, Vanessa & Beatty, Julia
- Affiliation:
- Valentine Charlton Cat Centre, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Sydney NSW 2006, Australia · Australia
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
Alimentary lymphoma is a type of cancer that commonly affects cats, especially those that are middle-aged to older, typically around 10 to 13 years old. There are different forms of this cancer, and they can behave differently, which makes it important to get the right diagnosis for effective treatment. Sometimes, it can be hard to tell the difference between low-grade alimentary lymphoma and another condition called lymphoplasmacytic enteritis, especially when only small samples of the intestines are taken for testing. Because of this, some types of lymphoma might be overlooked during routine checks. Overall, the information about this condition comes from various studies and the experiences of veterinarians, highlighting the need for careful diagnosis and treatment planning.
Abstract
Practical relevance Alimentary lymphoma (AL) occurs commonly in cats and exists as distinct subtypes that differ in their clinical course, response to treatment and prognosis. Accurate diagnosis is important to guide appropriate treatment. Clinical challenges Differentiation of low-grade alimentary lymphoma from lymphoplasmacytic enteritis can be challenging, especially where endoscopic intestinal biopsies, which sample only the mucosa and submucosa, are used. The major differentials for intermediate- and high-grade alimentary lymphoma are other neoplastic and non-neoplastic intestinal mass lesions. The diagnosis of large granular lymphocyte lymphoma requires vigilance as it may be missed with routine diagnostics. Patient group AL affects predominantly middle- to old-aged domestic crossbred cats (median age 10–13 years). Evidence base The evidence supporting this review is grade II, III and IV, derived from prospective studies, retrospective case series, reviews, extrapolation from other species, pathophysiological justification and the combined clinical experience of those working in the field.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://doi.org/10.1177/1098612x12439265