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檢測寵物內癌：症狀、診斷和護理

經過 TCMVET | 2024 年 9 月 19 日 | 狗癌症和腫瘤

對於獸醫和寵物主人來說，檢測寵物體內的癌症是最大的挑戰之一。與外部腫瘤或皮膚異常不同，內部癌症是隱藏的，並且在進展之前通常不會被注意到。了解這些症狀，並將這些知識與身體檢查和實驗室工作結合起來，對於早期發現和成功治療至關重要。

寵物內癌的常見症狀

儘管內癌很難透過肉眼識別，但寵物通常會表現出微妙的跡象，如果及早發現，可以及時診斷。以下是寵物主人應注意的一些關鍵症狀：

Unexplained Weight Loss：突然或不明原因的體重減輕是寵物內癌最常見的早期預警訊號之一。這可能是由於腫瘤影響了身體的新陳代謝或參與消化的器官。
Changes in Appetite：寵物突然拒絕進食或對食物表現出不那麼感興趣可能正在處理內部問題。應檢查食慾不振，尤其是伴隨其他症狀時。
昏睡：如果曾經活躍的寵物變得昏昏欲睡或看起來總是疲倦，這可能表示存在潛在的健康問題。雖然嗜睡可能與許多疾病有關，但它通常是內科癌症的關鍵症狀之一。
腹脹：腹部明顯腫脹或腹脹可能表示內部有腫塊或液體積聚，通常與肝癌、脾臟或其他腹部器官的癌症有關。
呼吸困難：某些內部癌症，特別是那些影響肺部或胸腔的癌症，可能會導致呼吸困難或呼吸急促。如果您的寵物在沒有任何明顯原因的情況下出現呼吸困難，則必須立即尋求獸醫的幫助。

獸醫檢查和實驗室測試的作用

雖然症狀提供了有價值的線索，但它們通常不足以明確診斷內癌。這就是獸醫檢查和實驗室工作發揮作用的地方。

體檢：徹底的身體檢查有時可以發現外部不可見的異常，例如淋巴結腫大、腹部腫塊或心律不整。
Blood Tests：常規血液檢查可以提供有關寵物內部健康狀況的重要資訊。紅血球和白血球計數、肝酵素或腎功能異常可能表示有癌症或其他嚴重的健康問題。
影像學：X 光、超音波和 CT 掃描等技術是檢測內部癌症的寶貴工具。這些影像測試使獸醫能夠觀察器官和組織，識別任何腫塊、積液或結構異常。
活檢：在許多情況下，活檢（獲取組織樣本進行分析）是診斷癌症的最終方法。這有助於確定癌症的類型、分期和侵襲性，指導治療過程。

寵物內癌的治療選擇

一旦診斷出癌症，治療計劃將取決於多種因素，包括癌症的類型、階段和寵物的整體健康狀況。以下是常見的治療方案：

手術：對於局部腫瘤，手術可能是切除腫塊並防止其擴散的最佳選擇。早期發現是關鍵，因為一些癌症可能已經擴散到身體的其他部位。
化療：化療是一種全身性治療方法，可以針對全身的癌細胞。通常建議用於擴散或不適合手術的癌症。
放射治療：這種治療用於縮小腫瘤或殺死癌細胞。它對於某些不易透過手術切除的癌症特別有效。
安寧療護：如果癌症太晚期，安寧療護的重點是改善寵物的生活品質、控制疼痛並確保其餘下日子的舒適度。

早期檢測的重要性

早期檢測對於控制寵物癌症至關重要。定期進行獸醫檢查、血液檢查以及監測寵物行為或身體狀況的任何變化可以幫助在潛在問題變得嚴重之前發現它們。如果癌症及早發現，成功治療和延長寵物生命的機會就更大。

寵物癌症的檢測，尤其是體內癌症的檢測，可能是一個艱難而情緒化的過程。對寵物的健康保持警惕、了解警告信號並及時尋求獸醫護理可以使一切變得不同。透過正確的方法、早期診斷和治療，患有內癌的寵物可以活得更久、更舒適。

Plasmacytomas are rare tumors in dogs that originate from plasma cells, a type of white blood cell responsible for producing antibodies. While plasmacytomas are uncommon, they can be a serious condition that requires prompt veterinary care. In this article, we’ll explore what plasmacytomas are, their symptoms, how they’re diagnosed, and the treatment options available to help your dog recover.

What Are Plasmacytomas in Dogs?

Plasmacytomas are tumors formed from plasma cells, often appearing in various parts of a dog’s body, including the skin, gastrointestinal tract, or oral cavity. Most plasmacytomas are benign (non-cancerous), but in some cases, they can be malignant and spread to other areas of the body, such as bones or internal organs.

There are two main types of plasmacytomas seen in dogs:

Cutaneous Plasmacytomas: These occur on the skin and are the most common type of plasmacytoma in dogs. They typically present as solitary masses on the limbs, head, or trunk.
Extramedullary Plasmacytomas: These develop outside the bone marrow, most often in mucous membranes, such as the mouth, stomach, or intestines.

Symptoms of Plasmacytomas in Dogs

Plasmacytomas may not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages, but as the tumor grows, signs can become more apparent. The symptoms your dog displays will vary depending on the location of the plasmacytoma:

Cutaneous Plasmacytomas: These are usually small, raised, firm, and solitary lumps found on the skin. The lumps may be red, ulcerated, or cause mild irritation, but are often painless.
Oral or Gastrointestinal Plasmacytomas: Dogs with plasmacytomas in the mouth or digestive tract may exhibit symptoms such as:
- 進食或吞嚥困難
- 嘔吐
- Diarrhea or bloody stools
- 減肥
- Bad breath (halitosis)
全身症狀: If the plasmacytoma is malignant and spreads, your dog may experience more general signs of illness, such as fatigue, loss of appetite, or unexplained weight loss.

原因和風險因素

The exact cause of plasmacytomas in dogs is not well understood, but there are certain risk factors and breeds that appear to be more prone to developing these tumors:

品種傾向: Older dogs and breeds such as Cocker Spaniels, Golden Retrievers, and Scottish Terriers are more likely to develop plasmacytomas.
年齡: Plasmacytomas are most commonly seen in middle-aged to senior dogs, though they can occur in younger animals as well.

Diagnosing Plasmacytomas in Dogs

If you notice a lump on your dog’s skin or your dog is experiencing symptoms that suggest a plasmacytoma, a visit to the veterinarian is essential for proper diagnosis. The diagnostic process typically includes:

體檢: Your vet will perform a thorough physical examination, particularly inspecting any lumps or masses for size, shape, and texture.
Fine-needle aspiration (FNA): A small needle is inserted into the lump to collect cells for analysis. This is a quick and minimally invasive way to evaluate the type of tumor.
活檢: In some cases, a surgical biopsy may be necessary to remove a larger sample of the tumor tissue for more detailed examination.
影像學檢查: If there is concern that the plasmacytoma has spread internally, your vet may recommend X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI scans to check for tumors in other parts of the body.
Blood work: Blood tests may be conducted to assess the overall health of your dog and to look for any signs that the tumor is affecting internal organs.

Treatment Options for Plasmacytomas in Dogs

The treatment approach for plasmacytomas depends on the size, location, and whether the tumor is benign or malignant. Common treatment options include:

手術切除: Surgery is the most common treatment for cutaneous plasmacytomas. Since these tumors are usually benign, complete surgical excision typically results in a full recovery. In cases of oral or gastrointestinal plasmacytomas, surgery may also be necessary to remove the tumor.
放射治療: If the plasmacytoma is inoperable or if surgical margins are incomplete, radiation therapy may be used to shrink the tumor or prevent its regrowth.
化療: Chemotherapy is generally reserved for cases where the plasmacytoma is malignant and has spread to other areas of the body. Chemotherapy can help control the spread of cancerous cells and improve quality of life.
監控: For benign plasmacytomas that are not causing any symptoms or discomfort, your vet may suggest a wait-and-see approach, monitoring the tumor for any signs of growth or changes.

Prognosis for Dogs with Plasmacytomas

The prognosis for dogs with plasmacytomas largely depends on whether the tumor is benign or malignant. Dogs with benign cutaneous plasmacytomas that are surgically removed have an excellent prognosis, with most making a full recovery.

However, if the plasmacytoma is malignant or has spread to other parts of the body, the prognosis may be more guarded, and long-term management may be necessary.

Plasmacytomas are rare tumors in dogs, but they can be successfully managed with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. If you notice any unusual lumps or signs of illness in your dog, prompt veterinary care is crucial. With timely intervention, many dogs with plasmacytomas go on to live healthy, happy lives.

術後照顧狗狗的基本技巧

經過 TCMVET | 2024 年 9 月 19 日 | 藥物與療法

手術後照顧您的狗是其康復過程的關鍵部分。無論您的狗接受了常規手術還是更複雜的手術，您的術後護理在幫助它們正常癒合和避免併發症方面都起著至關重要的作用。在本文中，我們將提供有關如何在手術後照顧您的狗的全面指南，以確保它們的舒適度並促進順利康復。

1. 準備你的狗的康復空間

在您的狗手術後回家之前，創造一個安全、舒適的空間供其休息和康復非常重要。該空間應包括：

一個安靜的區域：讓您的狗遠離噪音、其他寵物和交通繁忙的區域，以減輕壓力。
柔軟的寢具：提供舒適、乾淨的寢具來支撐他們的身體，尤其是當他們要長時間躺下時。
輕鬆取得食物和水：將食物碗和水碗放在觸手可及的地方，以盡量減少移動。
活動受限：限制狗狗進入樓梯或高架區域，以免狗狗跳躍或受傷。

2. 控制疼痛和藥物

手術後，您的獸醫可能會開藥來控制疼痛、預防感染和幫助癒合。以下是安全處理藥物的方法：

仔細遵循說明：始終嚴格按照獸醫的處方服用藥物。在未諮詢獸醫的情況下，請勿跳過劑量或給您的狗服用非處方藥。
監測副作用：注意任何不良反應的跡象，例如嘔吐、腹瀉或過度嗜睡，如果發現任何異常，請聯絡您的獸醫。
舒適舒緩：疼痛會使狗狗焦慮或不安。用輕柔的聲音、溫柔的撫摸和他們最喜歡的玩具來安慰他們，可以幫助他們平靜下來。

3. 監測手術部位

術後護理最重要的方面之一是保持手術部位清潔且無感染。以下是需要注意的事項：

檢查是否有感染跡象：每天監測切口是否有任何感染跡象，例如發紅、腫脹、分泌物或惡臭。如果您發現其中任何一個，請立即聯絡您的獸醫。
防止舔或咬：狗經常舔或咀嚼傷口，這可能導致感染或開放性傷口。使用伊麗莎白項圈（錐體）或狗康復服來防止這種行為。
保持該區域清潔乾燥：在獸醫解除警報之前，不要給您的狗洗澡，因為潮濕會導致感染。如果傷口變髒，請用獸醫認可的消毒液輕輕清潔。

4. 管理你的狗的活動水平

雖然幾天後您的狗可能會開始感覺好一些，但限制它們的體力活動對於正確康復至關重要。以下是管理活動層級的方法：

遵循獸醫的指示：您的獸醫將提供有關您的狗何時可以恢復正常活動的具體指南。必須嚴格遵守這些規定，以防止傷口再次裂開或造成進一步的傷害。
牽引繩只能行走：在最初的幾週內，將狗狗的運動限制為短距離、緩慢地牽著皮帶散步。避免奔跑、跳躍或粗暴玩耍，直到獸醫確認這樣做是安全的。
精神刺激：為了讓您的狗在不消耗體力的情況下得到娛樂，請提供益智玩具或互動零食分配器。精神刺激有助於防止恢復期間的無聊。

5. 營養和水分

適當的營養和水分是狗狗康復過程的關鍵。手術後，請遵循以下提示，以確保您的狗得到正確的照顧：

少量多餐：手術後，您的狗的食慾可能會下降。提供少量的常規食物或獸醫建議的清淡飲食，直到他們的食慾恢復正常。
確保水分：確保您的狗能夠持續獲得淡水。如果他們不願意喝水，可以嘗試在食物中加一點水或提供冰塊讓他們舔。
補充品：在某些情況下，您的獸醫可能會建議補充 omega-3 脂肪酸或益生菌，以支持癒合並增強您的狗的免疫系統。

6.管理你的狗的情緒健康

和人類一樣，狗狗在手術後也會感到焦慮、壓力，甚至憂鬱。以下是一些支持他們在復原期間情緒健康的方法：

提供舒適感和安心感：多花點時間陪伴您的狗，給予其溫柔的關愛並留在身邊，以減輕它們的壓力。
保持作息規律：堅持定期餵食、上廁所和服藥可以給狗狗帶來正常感，幫助您的狗狗感到更安全。
避免壓倒你的狗：恢復期間限制訪客和刺激，以防止壓力或過度興奮。

7. 後續獸醫預約

與您的獸醫定期進行後續預約對於監測您的狗的康復進度並解決任何問題至關重要。在這些訪問期間：

檢查縫線：您的獸醫將檢查切口以確保其正常癒合，並可能在必要時拆線。
討論恢復進度：與您的獸醫討論您的狗的行為、食慾或活動能力的任何變化，並遵循他們的建議進行持續護理。
詢問長期照護：如果您的狗因更嚴重的疾病（例如癌症）接受了手術，您的獸醫可能會建議進一步治療、改變生活方式或長期藥物。

手術後照顧你的狗需要耐心、關注，並承諾遵循獸醫的建議。透過提供舒適的康復環境、控制藥物和疼痛、監測手術部位以及控制狗狗的活動水平，您將為它們順利、成功的康復做好準備。如果您有任何疑慮，請務必諮詢您的獸醫，並記住您的狗的健康取決於它們在家中接受的護理。

How Your Dog’s Gut Bacteria Can Influence Cancer Risk

經過 TCMVET | 2024 年 9 月 18 日 | 狗癌症和腫瘤

In recent years, the connection between gut health and overall well-being has become a topic of great interest, not only for humans but also for our pets. The gut microbiome—the complex community of bacteria living in the digestive tract—plays a significant role in various aspects of health, including immunity, digestion, and even cancer risk. In this article, we’ll explore the link between your dog’s gut bacteria and cancer, and how maintaining a healthy microbiome can potentially reduce cancer risk.

Understanding the Gut Microbiome in Dogs

The gut microbiome consists of trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, that live in the gastrointestinal tract of animals. In dogs, these microbes help break down food, produce essential nutrients, and support the immune system. A balanced microbiome is crucial for your dog’s overall health, as it helps prevent inflammation and protects against diseases, including cancer.

The Gut-Cancer Connection

Researchers have discovered that the gut microbiome has a profound impact on cancer development and progression. Here’s how gut bacteria may influence cancer risk in dogs:

免疫系統調節: The gut microbiome plays a critical role in regulating the immune system. A healthy, balanced microbiome promotes a strong immune response, which can detect and destroy cancer cells early. On the other hand, an imbalanced microbiome (dysbiosis) can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off cancerous cells.
Chronic Inflammation: An unhealthy gut microbiome can lead to chronic inflammation in the body, which is a known risk factor for cancer. Inflammation causes cells to become damaged, and over time, this can result in mutations and the formation of tumors.
毒素產生: Some harmful bacteria in the gut produce toxins that can damage DNA and promote cancer development. Keeping the gut microbiome in balance can help prevent the overgrowth of these harmful bacteria.
Impact on Cancer Treatments: Recent studies suggest that the gut microbiome may influence how well cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy, work. A healthy microbiome may improve treatment outcomes, while an imbalanced one may reduce the effectiveness of these therapies.

Signs of an Unhealthy Gut in Dogs

It’s essential to monitor your dog’s gut health to ensure their microbiome is functioning correctly. Signs of an unhealthy gut include:

消化問題: Diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and excessive gas can indicate an imbalance in the gut bacteria.
Skin problems: Chronic itching, inflammation, and infections may be related to poor gut health.
Weakened immune system: Frequent infections or a slow recovery from illness can be signs that your dog’s gut microbiome isn’t supporting their immune function.
Behavioral changes: Some dogs with gut imbalances may become more anxious, lethargic, or display behavioral changes due to discomfort.

How to Support Your Dog’s Gut Health

Supporting your dog’s gut health is crucial for their overall well-being and may help reduce their cancer risk. Here are some ways to maintain a healthy microbiome in dogs:

益生菌和益生元: These supplements can help maintain the balance of beneficial bacteria in your dog’s gut. Probiotics introduce good bacteria, while prebiotics serve as food for these bacteria, promoting their growth.
高品質飲食: A balanced, high-quality diet rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals can support gut health. Avoid processed foods and focus on whole, nutrient-dense ingredients to nourish your dog’s microbiome.
Avoid Overuse of Antibiotics: While antibiotics are sometimes necessary, overuse can kill off beneficial bacteria in the gut, leading to dysbiosis. Only use antibiotics when prescribed by your veterinarian and discuss alternatives when possible.
定期鍛鍊: Physical activity can promote healthy gut bacteria and improve digestion. Make sure your dog gets regular exercise to keep their gut functioning optimally.
壓力管理: Just like humans, dogs experience stress, which can negatively impact their gut health. Providing a calm environment, routine, and mental stimulation can help keep your dog’s gut bacteria in balance.

Can Gut Health Prevent Cancer in Dogs?

While no single factor can completely prevent cancer, maintaining a healthy gut microbiome may reduce your dog’s risk of developing cancer. By supporting your dog’s immune system, reducing chronic inflammation, and keeping harmful bacteria in check, a balanced microbiome can play a key role in protecting your dog from cancer.

The connection between your dog’s gut bacteria and cancer risk is an emerging area of research that highlights the importance of gut health in disease prevention. By focusing on maintaining a balanced gut microbiome, you can help support your dog’s overall health and potentially reduce their risk of cancer. Remember to consult your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet or health regimen to ensure their specific needs are met.