An Overview of Feline Lymphoma

Feline lymphoma occurs due to a tumor affecting the lymphatic system.  It is possible for the virus to suppress the immune system which can often lead to tumor formation.  The cells and tissues of the lymphatic system are present in various areas of the feline body.  A tumor may occur in the eyes, gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, or lymph nodes.  Feline lymphoma is associated with a viral infection caused by the feline leukemia virus.  It is most frequently seen in cats over nine years old. 

Feline lymphoma takes three forms based upon the point of origin.  The multi-centric form of the disease occurs in multiple organs and lymph nodes.  This is the most severe form of the disease.  The mediastinal form is found in areas including the chest cavity, lymph nodes, and the thymus.  The third category, or alimentary form, affects the digestive tract of a cat. 

Treatment of feline lymphoma usually involves chemotherapy treatment or a combination of chemotherapy and radiation therapy.  Approximately 70% of cats afflicted with this disease respond favorably to chemotherapy.  This can increase their life span by two or three years, especially if the cancer goes into remission.  Unfortunately, cats that do not respond to the treatment may only survive for a few months.