🐱 Veterinary Guide to Cutaneous Lymphoma in Cats: Diagnosis and Treatment Insights for 2025 🩺

By Dr. Duncan Houston, BVSc

🔍 What Is Cutaneous Lymphoma?

Cutaneous lymphoma is a rare but serious type of skin cancer in cats caused by the malignant transformation of lymphocytes—white blood cells critical to immune function. While lymphoma is among the most common cancers in felines, cutaneous lymphoma specifically affects the skin and presents unique diagnostic and treatment challenges.

🧬 The Role of Lymphocytes and Disease Spread

Lymphocytes are immune cells that circulate throughout the body. In cutaneous lymphoma, these cells become cancerous and cause skin tumors that can develop anywhere, including:

• Lips and eyelids 👁️
• Rectum and vulva 🚺
• Prepuce of the penis 🚹
• Near the hock (ankle) 🐾

Often, lymphoma doesn't stay confined to the skin. It may also affect internal organs like the lymph nodes, gastrointestinal tract, liver, kidneys, spleen, nasal passages, or even the mouth.

❓ What Causes It?

The exact cause is typically unknown. While feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) are associated with other lymphomas, they don’t appear to be linked with most cases of cutaneous lymphoma. Rarely, lymphoma can occur at vaccination sites, though these are more commonly associated with other cancer types.

🩸 Recognizing the Symptoms

Cats with cutaneous lymphoma may exhibit a wide range of symptoms, including:

• Skin nodules or masses
• Ulcers or areas of red, flaky, or discolored skin
• Thickened, oozing, or bleeding skin
• Hair loss over affected areas

In systemic cases, additional symptoms may include:

• Swollen lymph nodes
• Loss of appetite 🥺
• Weight loss ⚖️
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Fatigue or general weakness

🔬 How Is It Diagnosed?

Proper diagnosis is essential to distinguish cutaneous lymphoma from other skin diseases. Diagnostic steps may include:

• Fine Needle Aspirate or Biopsy: Samples taken from skin lesions for microscopic analysis.
• Blood Tests and Urinalysis: To check overall health and organ function.
• X-rays and Ultrasound: To detect internal involvement.

Definitive diagnosis may require pathology to assess if lymphoma is present and to determine its type and extent.

💊 Treatment Options in 2025

🔪 Surgery

Surgery may be effective if the lymphoma is confined to a single lesion, but this is rare. More often, the disease is widespread, limiting the usefulness of surgical removal.

💉 Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is the mainstay of treatment. Common drugs include cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and prednisolone. In many cases, chemotherapy can lead to a rapid reduction in lesion size and improve comfort. However, the effects may be temporary.

🌟 Radiation Therapy

Radiation may be used when the lymphoma is localized. In select cases, superficial radiation therapy can be used to manage multiple skin lesions without affecting deeper tissues.

💊 Corticosteroids

Prednisolone, a corticosteroid, is often part of the chemotherapy protocol. When more aggressive therapy isn’t possible, corticosteroids alone may temporarily reduce symptoms.

📉 Prognosis and Life Expectancy

Unfortunately, the long-term outlook for cutaneous lymphoma is poor. Most cats survive less than a year after diagnosis. However, those with solitary lesions or less aggressive forms may live longer, particularly if treatment is started early.

🏥 Quality of Life Matters

While a cure is unlikely, appropriate treatment can improve quality of life. Goals include:

• Reducing lesion discomfort and inflammation
• Maintaining appetite and hydration
• Preventing secondary infections
• Monitoring for systemic spread

📲 When to Consult a Vet

If your cat shows any signs of unexplained skin changes, swelling, or lethargy, consult your veterinarian immediately. Early detection is key to offering the best possible outcome.

📱 Need Help Navigating Cancer Care?

Support is just a tap away! Download the Ask A Vet app or visit AskAVet.com to speak with a licensed veterinarian about your cat's condition. From diagnosis to daily care tips, we’re here for every step of your journey. 🐾💙