Large granular lymphocyte lymphoma in 65 dogs (2005–2023)

Abstract

Large granular lymphocyte lymphoma (LGLL) is a rare form of lymphoma in dogs. Limited information exists regarding presentation, treatment response, and outcome. The aim of this single‐institute, retrospective study was to characterise clinical presentation, biologic behaviour, outcomes, and prognostic factors for dogs with LGLL. Cytologic review was also performed. Sixty‐five dogs were included. The most common breed was the Labrador retriever (29.2%), and the most common presenting signs were lethargy (60.0%) and hyporexia (55.4%). The most common primary anatomic forms were hepatosplenic (32.8%) and gastrointestinal (20.7%). Twenty dogs (30.8%) had peripheral blood or bone marrow involvement. Thirty‐two dogs were treated with maximum tolerated dose chemotherapy (MTDC) with a response documented in 74.1% of dogs. Dogs ≥7 years, and those with neutropenia or thrombocytopenia at diagnosis had the reduced likelihood of response to treatment. For dogs treated with MTDC median progression‐free interval (PFI) was 17 days (range, 0–481), the median overall survival time (OST) 28 days (range, 3–421), and the 6‐month and 1‐year survival rates were 9.4% and 3.1%, respectively. On multivariable analysis, monocytosis and peripheral blood involvement were significantly associated with shorter PFI and OST. Long‐term survival (≥100 days) was significantly associated with intermediate lymphocyte size on cytology. Dogs with LGLL have moderate response rates to chemotherapy but poor overall survival. Additional studies are needed to further evaluate prognostic factors and guide optimum treatment recommendations.