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My dog has swollen nodes. Could the lymphoma diagnosis be wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | spayed | 10 years and 4 months old | 67 lbs

My dog has a swollen lymph node causing breathing issues. After some tests (ultrasound of abdomen - with swollen nodes - and chest x-ray), the vet thinks its lymphoma, despite the cytology coming back as lymphoid hyperplasia. Her only other symptoms were lethargy and lack of appetite. Could the lymphoma diagnosis be wrong?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 16th, 2019

I'm sorry Shiloh isn't doing well! Unfortunately cancer can be common in senior dogs, and I'm not surprised your vet suspects lymphoma. Without seeing her in person, I can't say for certain what is her diagnosis, so I recommend taking her into another vet for a second opinion. Best of luck.

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    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 10th, 2017

    Unfortunately lymphoma is one of the possibilities, even at this age, many times in the beginning the only symptom will be swollen lymph nodes. swollen lymph nodes could also be due to an infection, you will need to take her to the vet in order to get it checked, a blood test and sample from the lymph node will be taken in order to get a diagnosis, the treatment will be given accordingly.

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