Mediastinal Lymphoma in Cats: Symptoms, Causes & Care

Mediastinal lymphoma in cats is a serious cancer affecting the region between the lungs, specifically the thymus and nearby lymph nodes. This form of lymphoma is more common in younger cats and certain breeds, particularly Siamese cats, which seems to suggest a genetic predisposition. It involves abnormal lymphocyte cells, which are critical to a cat's immune system and represent one of the most common blood cancers found in felines.

Lymphoma associated with mediastinal tumours can cause hypercalcemia in affected cats, complicating their condition. Importantly, it is often linked to a history of feline leukemia virus (FeLV) or feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infections, illnesses that significantly increase lymphoma risk.

Recognising Symptoms of Mediastinal Lymphoma

The symptoms can vary depending on the size, location, and number of tumour masses, but generally affected cats exhibit:

• Open-mouth breathing due to respiratory distress
• Persistent coughing
• Loss of appetite and anorexia
• Weight loss over a short period

If your cat shows any of these warning signs, consulting a vet promptly is essential for early evaluation.

Causes and Risk Factors

Mediastinal lymphoma is most often related to viral infections like FeLV and FIV, which compromise immune function and encourage malignant transformations of lymphocyte cells. Younger cats and specific breeds such as Siamese and Oriental cats appear more susceptible to this cancer, which may reflect both genetic and environmental factors.

Diagnosing Mediastinal Lymphoma

Your vet will begin by collecting a thorough medical and family history, including any previous illnesses like FeLV or FIV. A careful physical examination will be followed by diagnostic tests including:

• Complete blood count (CBC) to check for anaemia or abnormal lymphocytes (lymphoblastosis)
• Biochemistry profile assessing kidney and liver function, and calcium levels for abnormalities
• Urinalysis to detect protein or bilirubin, indicating systemic effects
• FeLV and FIV testing, as infection status influences prognosis and treatment
• Thoracic X-rays to visualise the mediastinal mass and assess lung and heart involvement
• Bone marrow biopsy for definitive diagnosis confirming lymphoma

Treatment Approaches and Considerations

While mediastinal lymphoma is unfortunately incurable, treatment focuses on improving and maintaining quality of life for as long as possible. Treatment planning is highly individual and usually involves:

• Chemotherapy, often using multi-agent protocols tailored by a veterinary oncologist
• Radiotherapy in some cases, if accessible and appropriate
• Occasionally, surgery may be considered but is usually limited by tumour stage and location

Several factors influence treatment choice, including cancer stage, cat's age, overall health, and viral infection status. Managing side effects and keeping your pet comfortable are important aspects of care.

Prognosis and Monitoring

The prognosis varies, but is generally guarded. Cats diagnosed early and those who are FeLV-negative may experience longer survival times and better treatment responses. Regular monitoring by your veterinary team is critical to assess response and adjust care.

Supporting a Cat with Mediastinal Lymphoma

Although there is no cure, enhancing your cat's comfort is paramount. Monitor their appetite and water intake closely, providing palatable and nutritious food to encourage eating. Ensure a calm, stress-free environment to help your cat rest. Typical survival ranges from several months up to about two years depending on treatment success and individual response.

If you have a Siamese cat or similar breed, it is wise to keep vigilant for early signs and maintain regular veterinary check-ups, especially if there is a history of FeLV or FIV.

Ultimately, working closely with a qualified veterinary oncologist will provide the best customised approach for your cat’s situation, offering hope and compassionate care during this challenging diagnosis.

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