Cancer

21.3.2 CancerNote: The change to pitch (12) and font (6) must be converted manually.

Cancer is a condition when certain body cells multiply abnormally. These abnormal cells are called “cancer cells” and may spread throughout the body via the blood or lymph system. Cancer cells that spread to other parts of the body are called “malignant.” Cancer cells that don’t spread are called “benign.” Malignant cancer cells tend to invade organs like the liver, brain, heart, and lungs, which may eventually kill the animal. A group of cancer cells collected in one place is often called a “tumor.”

Cancer is called by different names depending on the type of cell that multiplies abnormally. For example, cancer of the white blood cells is called leukemia, of lymph nodes – lymphoma, of certain skin cells – carcinoma, of bone cells – osteosarcoma. Certain types of cancer are more common in certain types, breeds, or families (bloodlines) of animals, as well as in certain geographical areas. In addition, certain viruses can cause cancer.

In general, no effective and inexpensive treatment is available for malignant cancer in livestock or horses. The animal will die slowly (or can be euthanized or slaughtered). Tumors can be surgically removed which can cure benign cancer or, if done early on, prevent malignant cancer cells from spreading.

Attempting to stop cancer cells from multiplying is done by using x-rays (called “radiation therapy”) or by using certain chemicals (called “chemotherapy”). However, this is not usually feasible in livestock or horses.