Nasal issues are a frequent concern for dog owners, with sneezing, nasal discharge, and other symptoms often bringing pets to the vet. While many of these signs can be caused by non-cancerous conditions, it’s important to keep in mind that nasal cancer is a possibility, especially in older dogs or those with persistent symptoms. While not every sneeze or runny nose points to cancer, it’s crucial to be aware of the signs so you can catch potential issues early.
What are the Symptoms of Nasal Cancer?
Nasal cancer in dogs often starts with subtle symptoms that can be mistaken for a cold, allergies, or an irritation in the nasal passages. Early signs include frequent sneezing, yellow-green discharge from one nostril, a bloody nose (often from one side), and pawing at one side of the face. As the cancer advances, these symptoms typically worsen. Both nostrils may begin to produce mucus or blood, and changes to the eyes (such as a raised “third eyelid”) or facial structure (like facial deformities) may become noticeable. Dogs might also develop noisy breathing, prefer to breathe through their mouth due to nasal blockage, and can show signs of sleep disturbances like snoring or even sleep apnea-like symptoms. For long-standing undiagnosed cancer, spreading from the nasal cavities into the nearby brain can result in neurologic symptoms, including seizures.
Early signs include frequent sneezing, yellow-green discharge from one nostril, a bloody nose and pawing at one side of the face.
What Causes Nasal Cancer in Dogs?
The exact cause of nasal cancer in dogs isn’t fully understood, but several factors are believed to play a role. As with many types of cancer, age is a significant factor, with older dogs being at a higher risk of developing nasal cancer compared to younger ones. Certain breeds with long noses (dolichocephalic breeds) are more susceptible than brachycephalic breeds (dogs with “smooshy” faces, like Bulldogs and Pugs). Genetics likely contribute to some cases, as certain breeds may have a genetic predisposition to nasal tumors. Additionally, environmental factors, particularly chronic exposure to secondhand smoke, can lead to nasal irritation and inflammation, which may increase the risk of cancer. Poor air quality and pollutants leading to chronic inflammation could also be contributing factors in the development of nasal cancer in dogs.
What Type of Cancers Occur?
Although a wide variety of cancers can occur, carcinomas are by far the most common. Other cancer types have also been reported including sarcoma, and less commonly mast cell tumor, neuroblastoma, melanoma and transmissible venereal tumor.
How Are Nasal Cancers Diagnosed?
Diagnosing nasal cancer in dogs involves a combination of blood tests, imaging studies, and biopsies to confirm the presence and type of cancer.
Blood Tests: While no blood test can definitively diagnose nasal cancer, routine blood tests can reveal changes that might suggest cancer or help identify other health issues. These tests are mainly used to assess overall health and ensure patients are stable enough to undergo anesthesia for imaging or biopsy procedures.
Imaging Studies: X-rays can be used to examine the nasal passages and detect any abnormalities that might be caused by cancer. However, CT (computed tomography) scans offer much more detailed images, helping to assess the size of any tumors and the degree of damage to surrounding nasal structures. CT scan results are also frequently used during any subsequent radiation treatment that may be recommended. X-rays are useful for checking whether cancer has spread to other areas, like the lungs.
Biopsies: The definitive diagnosis of cancer—and the determination of its type—requires a biopsy, which is then reviewed by a veterinary pathologist. Thanks to advances in non-invasive techniques, surgical biopsies are now rarely necessary. Rhinoscopy, a specific form of endoscopy, is the preferred method for visually inspecting the nasal passages and collecting tissue samples without the need for surgery or causing facial disfigurement.
The following video, obtained during rhinoscopy for one of our patients, shows the procedure that ultimately led to an unfortunate diagnosis of nasal carcinoma.
How Are Nasal Cancers Treated?
Treatment for nasal cancer in dogs depends on the type and stage of the cancer. For most common nasal cancers, radiation therapy is typically the preferred treatment, as it can help shrink tumors and alleviate symptoms. In some cases, chemotherapy may be considered, especially for certain cancer types or specific patients, though it’s less commonly used for nasal tumors. Unfortunately, a complete cure is often not achievable, so the focus of treatment is on symptom management and improving the patient’s quality of life, while also working to extend their lifespan.
For most common nasal cancers, radiation therapy is typically the preferred treatment.
Want to Learn More?
To learn more about the use of non-invasive endoscopy and rhinoscopy, take a look at our companion rhinoscopy blog for a comprehensive discussion about this valuable diagnostic test.
Your Pet’s Safety and Your Confidence is Our Priority
Rhinoscopy is a valuable tool in the diagnosis of nasal cancers in pets. This minimally invasive procedure avoids the pain, healing process and potential disfigurements that surgical biopsies could cause. However, like any medical procedure, it has its limitations and risks.
We understand that you worry about your furry family member, and we will spend as much time discussing all aspects of rhinoscopy with you prior to the procedure to ensure that you are comfortable and confident.
Please contact us if you have questions about nasal cancers or rhinoscopy, or wonder if your pet would benefit from this procedure.
Author:
James Woods DVM, MS, DACVIM (SAIM)
Ph: (912) 721-6410
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