A brain tumor is a mass of abnormal cells in the brain. Although usually seen in older pets, the condition can occur at any age. Brain tumors in pets are often malignant (cancerous) and can cause serious and potentially deadly symptoms.
Causes of Brain Tumors
Brain tumors have been linked to genetic and environmental factors, diet, and exposure to carcinogens. However, many cases are idiopathic. This means that they have no identifiable cause.
Brain tumors can be classified into two main categories: primary and secondary. Primary brain tumors arise in the brain or its membranes. These types of tumors include meningioma, glioma, and choroid plexus papilloma. Secondary brain tumors are caused by cancer metastasizing (spreading) to the brain from other sites in the body. Examples of secondary brain tumors include melanoma and mammary carcinoma.
Certain breeds of dog are predisposed to developing brain tumors. Brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds such as Boston terriers and boxers are susceptible to tumors that originate in the pituitary gland at the base of the brain. By comparison, dolichocephalic (long-headed) breeds including collies and golden retrievers are more prone to meningioma. This type of tumor originates in the membranes of the brain.
Symptoms of Brain Tumors
Symptoms of brain tumors may be sudden or progressive in onset. Please visit your veterinarian immediately if your pet displays any of the following signs of the condition.
- Acute seizures
- Tremors
- Vision loss
- Behavioral changes
- Excessive panting
- Loss of coordination
- Abnormal gait
- Weakness
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
Diagnosis of Brain Tumors
Your veterinarian will assess your pet’s medical history and ask you a series of questions about the onset of their symptoms. They will then perform a thorough physical and neurologic examination to check for clinical signs that may indicate a brain tumor.
Other diagnostic tests such as a urinalysis and bloodworkmay also be recommended to assess your pet’s overall condition and check organ function. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computerized tomography (CT) scans can be used to help confirm the presence of a brain tumor.
In addition, your veterinarian may perform X-rays or ultrasounds to check for the spread of cancer to other areas of the body. If a tumor is located, a tissue sample (biopsy) may be taken so its cells can be identified. However, depending on the location of the tumor, this is not always possible.
Treatment of Brain Tumors
Treatment will depend on several factors, including the size, type, and location of a brain tumor. These options include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The aim of these methods is to remove or shrink the tumor. Your veterinarian may also prescribe medications to alleviate your pet’s symptoms. Please speak to your veterinarian for more information about viable treatment methods for your pet.
Prevention of Brain Tumors
Since genetic and idiopathic factors play a large role in the development of brain tumors, the condition is not considered preventable. Please schedule regular health checkups with your veterinarian to monitor your pet’s ongoing health.
