My dog has swollen neck glands. Should he be on antibiotics or steroids?

Question

My vet has told me that my dogs saliva glands are swollen in his neck, they feel quite hard, she had prescribed steroids , but with all the research I’ve done on line they all seem to recommend antibiotics? She also said it could be lymphoma, got to wait and see is steroids work, but my question is should he be on antibiotics? Pet's info: Dog | Border Collie | Male | neutered

Jenny, DVM · Accepted Answer

Antibiotics and steroids would be a guess of a treatment simply used to cover the possibilities. Enlarged lymph nodes can be a sign of cancer (lymphoma) or an infection. Steroids can interfere with a diagnosis of cancer but also help keep them comfortable for a short while It is best to have the gland aspirated or biopsied. The results can be back in 24-72 hours so you know exactly what you are dealing with. Generally a steroid and antibiotic can be started to cover your basis until you get a definitive answer. If it is cancer, then the antibiotics are pointless and can be stopped. IF it is inflammation or infection, then you are already on antibiotics to help cover you.

My dog has swollen neck glands. Should he be on antibiotics or steroids?

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