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Treatment

There is no curative treatment yet available for this neoplasm of the thyroid gland in dogs. Surgery may be employed for partial or complete removal of thyroid gland, along with the neoplastic tissue. As this area has an extensive blood supply, it is possible that extensive hemorrhage will occur during surgery, requiring a transfusion of blood to the dog. Other protocols used for the treatment of thyroid gland adenocarcinoma includes radiotherapy and chemotherapy. If the thyroid gland is removed, your veterinarian may prescribe the iodine supplement thryoxine to be given orally to your dog in order to maintain other body functions dependent upon thyroxine. Your dog will need thyroxine supplementation for a life time if this is one of the causative factors.

Living and Management

Dogs that have been treated for thyroid adenocarcinoma should be encouraged to rest if activity is causes breathing problems. As much as possible, keep your dog in a low stress environment. The heart rate in these patients tends to fluctuate, so your dog may collapse unexpectedly at any time. Contact your veterinarian immediately in such a situation. Follow your veterinarian's treatment guidelines, especially in giving the chemotherapeutic agents at home. Many chemotherapeutic agents can be hazardous to your health if not handled properly, consult with your veterinarian on the best handling practices.