Chondrosarcoma in Cats
Key takeaways
Chondrosarcoma is a rare type of cancer in cats which originates in cartilage. It is highly invasive, often infiltrating the surrounding soft tissues.
- Symptoms vary depending on the location of the initial tumor and include lameness, bone fractures, and swelling; in cases where the tumor is large it can sometimes be seen or felt under the skin
- Diagnostics include a biopsy, blood work, and diagnostic imaging
- Treatment primarily involves surgical removal of the tumor and affected soft tissue, in cases where this is not possible, radiation, chemotherapy, and palliative care are options
- Prognosis is guarded for chondrosarcoma and is very dependent on the location of the tumor and staging
- Prognosis is best with early diagnosis and when the tumor can be completely removed
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A closer look: Chondrosarcoma in Cats
Chondrosarcoma is a rare form of cancer in cats that is primarily seen in older pets. This is not a cancer which is readily treatable and the most optimal treatment is amputation of an affected limb. Chondrosarcoma may develop anywhere in the body so amputation is not always possible.
Any form of bone cancer is associated with a large reduction of life expectancy. If symptoms of skeletal swelling, pain, or lameness are present and not showing signs of improvement it is always advisable to seek veterinary care, especially in older cats with no history of injury.
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Risk factors
Chondrosarcoma is more common in older cats.
The symptoms can vary depending on location of the tumor and the staging of the cancer. If it has metastasized (spread to other tissues), it can take on characteristics of other cancers depending on where it has metastasized to. In addition, the tumor can grow in size to be substantially large which creates a visible or palpable change in the affected area.
Possible causes
The cause of chondrosarcoma in cats is currently unknown. As with all forms of cancer, genetic and environmental factors are suspected.
Main symptoms
The symptoms range depending on the location of the tumor.
Testing and diagnosis
After a physical examination and medical history, a number of tests can be done to determine diagnosis and staging;
- Biopsy of the tumor
- Blood work
- Diagnostic imaging
Steps to Recovery
Once chondrosarcoma is confirmed, the primary treatment is surgical removal of the tumor. If surgical removal is not possible, or if supportive treatments are needed post-surgery, additional treatment strategies include;
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation
- Palliative care
- Symptom management
Very little information is available about optimal treatment for this rare form of cancer in cats.
Prognosis is guarded with chondrosarcoma. Untreated cats have a very poor prognosis. In cases of complete surgical excision, especially in cases where amputation is possible, prognosis is fair.
Prevention
Given the cause is currently unknown, there is not anything that can be done to definitively prevent chondrosarcoma.
Chondrosarcoma is not contagious.
Is Chondrosarcoma in Cats common?
Chondrosarcoma is rare in cats.
Typical Treatment
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation
- Palliative care
- Symptom management
