Tumors of the brain in dogs
Last reviewed: 20.11.2021
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Brain tumors in dogs are rare. Most often they occur in dogs of middle age and older. The shortest-nosed breeds with large heads, including boxers, bulldogs and Boston terriers, are most likely to develop brain tumors. Tumors that can metastasize into the brain are breast, prostate and lung cancers, as well as hemangiosarcoma.
Symptoms depend on the location of the tumor and the level of its growth. Tumors of the brain cause seizures and / or behavior changes. A dog may have unsteady gait, a tilted head, nystagmus (rhythmic movement of the eyeball), and weakness or paralysis of the limbs. These signs progress, and the dog's condition worsens. Later signs may be stupor and coma.
An abscess of the brain is a buildup of pus in or around the brain. Its signs are similar to the symptoms of a brain tumor. With it, dogs often have fever. Pre-abscess of the brain may be infections of the oral cavity, inner ear or respiratory tract.
Treatment: the diagnosis of a tumor or abscess is established based on the results of the neurological examination and special tests, including EEG, cerebrospinal fluid analysis and CT scan or MRI. In some cases, surgical removal of benign brain tumors is possible. Chemotherapy and radiation treatment did not show their effectiveness in the treatment of most brain tumors in dogs. With the use of corticosteroids and anticonvulsants, temporary improvement is possible.
Treatment of abscesses is carried out with the help of high doses of antibiotics. The use of corticosteroids is usually contraindicated. And the prognosis for recovery is doubtful.