[Multicentric lymphoma in 411 dogs - an epidemiological study]

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Oncology
• Canine Epidemiology
• Comparative Pathology

Background:

• Canine multicentric lymphoma is a common malignancy in dogs.
• Understanding breed-specific predispositions and epidemiological factors is crucial for diagnosis and management.
• Previous studies have indicated breed associations, but further investigation in diverse populations is warranted.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the epidemiology of canine multicentric lymphoma in Germany.
• To identify breed predispositions and risk factors associated with this disease.
• To compare epidemiological data with reference populations.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 411 dogs diagnosed with multicentric malignant lymphoma.
• Data collected included breed, age, sex, weight, hypercalcaemia status, and B-/T-cell immunophenotype.
• Comparison with two large reference populations: a total clinic population (n=52,142) and insured dogs in Germany (n=123,423).

Main Results:

• A significant breed predisposition was observed for American Pitbull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Briard, Bullmastiff, Irish Setter, and Rottweiler.
• Golden Retrievers and Bernese Mountain Dogs were frequently affected in absolute numbers but showed lower odds ratios.
• Small-breed dogs (<15kg) were diagnosed at a significantly older age (9.3 years) compared to larger dogs (7.6 years).
• B-cell lymphoma occurred in older dogs (8.5 years) than T-cell lymphoma (6.4 years).
• Hypercalcaemia was present in 11.4% of cases, often associated with T-cell lymphoma.

Conclusions:

• This study confirms and expands upon known breed predispositions for canine multicentric lymphoma.
• Breeds such as Briard, West Highland White Terrier, and Irish Setter are further identified as predisposed.
• Age at diagnosis is inversely correlated with body weight, with smaller dogs being older at diagnosis.