Home » Diseases » In dogs » Hemangiosarcoma of the Liver and/or Spleen (Liver and Spleen Cancer)

Hemangiosarcoma of the Liver and/or Spleen (Liver and Spleen Cancer) in Dogs

Occurrence: common
Location of illness: Abdomen/pelvis

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 06.11.2025

A hemangiosarcoma is a malignantMalignant means "cancerous" and is used to describe tumors or neoplasms that grow invasively and have the ability to metastasize. Malignant tumors can cause serious health problems in dogs and cats. tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. that originates in the blood vessels and often affects the liver and spleen of dogs. This aggressive type of cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. often leads to internal Bleeding and can metastasize quickly.

The most important facts at a glance

Hemangiosarcomas are Tumors that originate from the cells of the blood vessels and often affect the liver and spleen of dogs. These Tumors are highly vascularized, which increases the risk of Bleeding. The exact cause is unclear, but genetic factors play a role, as certain dog breeds such as German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, and Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible. Environmental factors and the age of the dog can also be risk factors. Common symptoms include abdominalThe term "abdominal" refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. enlargement, weakness, and decreased exercise tolerance. Clinical examinations, imaging procedures such as ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow., and blood tests are performed for diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients.. Treatment often includes surgery to remove the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. and chemotherapyChemotherapy refers to the treatment of diseases, especially cancer, with chemical substances or drugs. It aims to kill cancer cells or prevent their growth, but can also affect healthy cells.. These measures can improve the quality of life but are not a cure. The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is usually unfavorable, with an average survival time of three to nine months. Preventive measures are limited, but regular veterinary examinations can help detect the disease early. Research focuses on better diagnostic methods and new treatment options, including immunotherapies and genetic approaches. Advances in imaging and the development of targeted therapies offer hope for improved diagnostic and treatment options.

Causes

Hemangiosarcomas are Tumors that originate from the endothelial cells of the blood vessels. These cells line the inner walls of the blood vessels and are responsible for the structure and function of these vessels. The Tumors are highly vascularized, meaning they contain many blood vessels, and this leads to a high risk of Bleeding.

The exact cause for the development of hemangiosarcomas is not yet fully understood, but genetic factors play a role. Certain dog breeds, such as the German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, and Labrador Retriever, appear to have a higher susceptibility to this type of cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas.. This suggests that genetic predispositions may play a role.

Environmental factors and the age of the dog are also considered potential risk factors. Hemangiosarcomas are more common in older dogs, suggesting that the aging process and associated cellularCellular refers to cells or consisting of cells. In biology and medicine, it refers to processes, structures, or functions that occur at the level of individual cells. changes may contribute to the development of the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions..

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Rare symptoms:

The symptoms of a hemangiosarcoma are often non-specific and can range from Lethargy, loss of appetite, and Weight loss to collapse and sudden Death. This is because the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. is often not diagnosed until it has already led to severe internal Bleeding.

A common sign is an enlarged spleen or liver, which may be noticeable during a physical examination. Sudden weakness or fainting may occur if the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. ruptures, leading to acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. internal Bleeding.

Other symptoms may include Pallor of the mucous membranes, accelerated breathing, Cardiac arrhythmiaAn arrhythmia is a heart rhythm disorder in which the heart beats irregularly, either too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or with an irregular pattern. Arrhythmias can be harmless or a sign of serious heart problems., and AbdominalThe term “abdominal” refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. pain. These symptoms are caused by Blood loss and the associated anemia, as well as by the pressure exerted by the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. on neighboring organs or structures.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing a hemangiosarcoma requires a combination of clinical examination, imaging procedures, and laboratory analyses. A veterinarian typically begins with a thorough physical examination and a detailed medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits..

Imaging techniques such as ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. and X-rays can be used to determine the size and position of the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. and to determine whether metastasesA metastasis is a secondary tumor that originates from a primary, malignant tumor in another part of the body. Metastases indicate that cancer has spread in the body. are present. A CT scan or MRI can provide additional detailed information.

Blood tests are also important to detect signs of anemia or other blood count changes that indicate internal Bleeding. A biopsyA biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small amount of tissue is removed from the body to be examined under a microscope for signs of disease. Biopsies can help diagnose cancer and other conditions. or fine needle aspiration may be required to make a definitive diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and examine the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. histologically.

Therapy

The treatment of hemangiosarcomas in dogs typically involves a combination of surgical procedures and chemotherapyChemotherapy refers to the treatment of diseases, especially cancer, with chemical substances or drugs. It aims to kill cancer cells or prevent their growth, but can also affect healthy cells.. Surgical removal of the affected spleen or liver may be necessary to remove the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. and reduce the risk of Bleeding.

After surgery, chemotherapyChemotherapy refers to the treatment of diseases, especially cancer, with chemical substances or drugs. It aims to kill cancer cells or prevent their growth, but can also affect healthy cells. is often recommended to kill any remaining cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. cells and reduce the risk of metastasisA metastasis is a secondary tumor that originates from a primary, malignant tumor in another part of the body. Metastases indicate that cancer has spread in the body.. ChemotherapyChemotherapy refers to the treatment of diseases, especially cancer, with chemical substances or drugs. It aims to kill cancer cells or prevent their growth, but can also affect healthy cells. can slow the progressionProgression refers to the advancement or worsening of a disease over time. It describes an increase in the severity or extent of the disease symptoms. of the disease and prolong survival time, but it is not a cure.

Because hemangiosarcomas are very aggressive, treatment is often palliativePalliative refers to treatments that aim to alleviate the symptoms of a disease without curing the disease itself. Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life of patients with incurable diseases.. This means that the main goal is to improve the dog’s quality of life and alleviate symptoms, rather than completely curing the cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas..

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. for dogs with hemangiosarcomas is unfortunately often poor. Even with surgical removal and chemotherapyChemotherapy refers to the treatment of diseases, especially cancer, with chemical substances or drugs. It aims to kill cancer cells or prevent their growth, but can also affect healthy cells., the average survival time is typically between three and nine months. Because the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. is often not diagnosed until it is in an advanced stage, treatment options are limited.

The aggressive nature of the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. and the high probability of metastasisA metastasis is a secondary tumor that originates from a primary, malignant tumor in another part of the body. Metastases indicate that cancer has spread in the body. contribute to the unfavorable prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop.. However, the course of the disease can vary greatly from individual to individual, and some dogs may survive longer, especially if the cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. is detected and treated early.

Prevention

Since the exact causes of hemangiosarcomas are not fully understood, there are no specific preventive measures that can reliably prevent the development of these Tumors. However, a regular veterinary examination can help detect signs of the disease early.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can support the dog’s overall health and potentially reduce the risk of various diseases, including cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas..

For owners of breeds that are genetically susceptible to hemangiosarcomas, it can be helpful to be aware of the signs and symptoms of this disease in order to react quickly at the first sign of suspicion. Early detection and treatment can improve the chances of survival.

Outlook on current research

Current research on hemangiosarcoma in dogs focuses on various aspects of the disease, including improving diagnostic methods, developing new treatment approaches, and understanding genetic predispositions. Researchers are investigating advanced imaging techniques, such as computed tomography (CT)Computed tomography (CT) is an imaging technique that uses X-rays and computer technology to create cross-sectional images of the body. It enables a detailed view of bones, organs, and other structures and is used for the diagnosis of injuries, diseases, and for planning medical interventions. and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)Magnetic resonance imaging is an imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of the body. It is used in veterinary medicine to diagnose diseases of the brain, spine, and other organs., to improve early detection of this aggressive form of cancer. These technologies allow for more detailed visualization of the internal organs and help veterinarians detect and assess Tumors earlier.

Another important area of research is the development of new therapeutic approaches. While traditional treatment options such as surgery and chemotherapyChemotherapy refers to the treatment of diseases, especially cancer, with chemical substances or drugs. It aims to kill cancer cells or prevent their growth, but can also affect healthy cells. have shown some success, the search for targeted therapies is of great importance to improve survival rates. Scientists are investigating the effectiveness of immunotherapies and personalized medicine approaches, in which the genetic characteristics of the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. are taken into account to develop tailored treatment plans.

Genetic research also plays a crucial role in combating hemangiosarcoma. Researchers are working to identify genetic markers that lead to an increased risk in certain dog breeds. By understanding the genetic basis, preventive measures can be developed that could be used in at-risk breeds. In addition, research is being conducted on how genetic changes affect tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. development and progressionProgression refers to the advancement or worsening of a disease over time. It describes an increase in the severity or extent of the disease symptoms., which could potentially lead to new therapeutic targets.

A promising area of research is the investigation of angiogenesis inhibitors, which inhibit the growth of new blood vessels. Since hemangiosarcomas are highly vascularized, these inhibitors could help disrupt tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. nutrition and slow tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. growth. Clinical trials are underway to evaluate the safety and efficacy of these drugs and determine their potential role in the treatment of hemangiosarcomas.

In addition, the role of nutrition and lifestyle in disease preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. and treatment is being explored. Some studies suggest that certain nutrients and diets may influence cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. risk. Researchers are investigating whether targeted dietary changes or supplements can improve the quality of life and survival rates of dogs with hemangiosarcoma. This research could lead to new recommendations for the nutrition of dogs that are susceptible to this form of cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas..

In summary, research on hemangiosarcoma in dogs is interdisciplinary and focuses on various innovative approaches. Advances in imaging, the development of new therapies, and the understanding of genetic factors offer hope for better diagnostic and treatment options. Collaboration between scientists, veterinarians, and dog owners is crucial to translate these advances into clinical practice and improve the lives of affected dogs.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is a hemangiosarcoma? A hemangiosarcoma is an aggressive form of cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. that originates from the blood vessels. In dogs, it often affects the spleen and liver, but can also occur in other organs.
What symptoms does a dog with hemangiosarcoma show? Symptoms can include weakness, Pallor of the mucous membranes, AbdominalThe term "abdominal" refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. pain, loss of appetite, Weight loss, and, in advanced disease, collapse or acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. weakness. Symptoms often do not appear until late in the disease.
How is a hemangiosarcoma diagnosed? The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. usually includes blood tests, imaging procedures such as ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. or X-rays, and possibly a biopsy of the tumor. Early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is difficult because symptoms only appear when the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. is advanced.
What treatment options are available for dogs with hemangiosarcoma? Treatment may include surgical removal of the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions., chemotherapyChemotherapy refers to the treatment of diseases, especially cancer, with chemical substances or drugs. It aims to kill cancer cells or prevent their growth, but can also affect healthy cells., and supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. care. The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. improves if the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. is detected and treated early.
What is the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. for dogs with hemangiosarcoma? The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. depends on the stage of the disease at the time of diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients.. Unfortunately, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is often unfavorable because the cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. is aggressive and often metastasizes.
Can certain dog breeds be at higher risk for hemangiosarcomas? Yes, certain breeds such as German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, and Labradors have an increased risk of developing hemangiosarcomas. Genetic factors play a role.
Are there preventive measures against hemangiosarcomas? There are no sure preventive measures, but a regular veterinary examination can help detect the disease early. A healthy diet and an active lifestyle can reduce the overall risk of cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas..
How long can a dog with hemangiosarcoma live? Survival time varies, often lasting only a few weeks to months after diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients., especially without treatment. With aggressive treatment, survival time can sometimes be extended.
Can a hemangiosarcoma be transmitted to humans? No, a hemangiosarcoma is not contagiousContagious means infectious. Diseases that can easily be transmitted from one animal to another or from animals to humans are referred to as contagious. and cannot be transmitted from dogs to humans.
What role does nutrition play in dogs with hemangiosarcoma? A balanced diet can help support overall well-being. Some studies are investigating special diets or supplements that could strengthen the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. and improve quality of life.