Canine Thyroid Tumor Check

In the early stages of the disease, a mass appears on the ventral neck, which can only be felt in 10-15% of cases. General blood biochemical tests mainly monitor the total thyroid hormone (T4), and pathological hyperthyroidism indicates a high probability of tumor. Diagnosis requires the combination of imaging examinations such as X-rays and CT scans. The main function of canine thyroid is to promote metabolism, maintain normal development, and particularly affect the development of the skeletal and nervous systems.

Neck ventral mass palpation and symptoms

In the early stages of the disease, a mass appears on the ventral neck, which can only be felt by 10-15% of dogs. As the tumor presses against the larynx and trachea, respiratory and vocal difficulties occur. Compression and mediation lead to dysphagia. If the neck nerves are involved, Horner's syndrome occurs.

Common symptoms include facial and neck edema, muscle paralysis, and sometimes hypocalcemia and watery diarrhea occur in dogs with medullary cancer. About 20-22% of adenomatous thyroid tumors are hyperfunctional.

Blood tests

Blood biochemical tests mainly focus on the total thyroid hormone (T4); pathological hyperthyroidism is suspected with increased levels. Increased thyroid hormone levels accompanied by decreased serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) indicate primary hyperthyroidism, suspected of thyroid adenoma or diffuse goiter. Increased thyroid hormone levels with increased TSH suggest secondary hyperthyroidism, suspected of pituitary adenoma. Decreased thyroid hormone levels with increased TSH indicate hypothyroidism, suspected of over-treatment of hyperthyroidism or chronic thyroiditis. Decreased thyroid hormone levels with decreased TSH suggest secondary hypothyroidism.

How to diagnose thyroid tumors

Usually, the diagnosis is confirmed by combining imaging examinations such as X-rays and CT scans. The main function of canine thyroid is to promote metabolism, maintain normal development, and particularly affect the development of the skeletal and nervous systems.