My dog has what? B-Cell vs T-Cell Lymphoma

Unexpectedly being given a cancer diagnosis is never easy. It can be overwhelming and confusing, but we here at CTAC are here for you and want to help break down what you're hearing. Whether you’re just beginning this journey or looking for answers to questions that have been racing through your mind, it’s important to start with a clear understanding of what lymphoma is — and what it means for your dog.

🧬 What is Lymphoma, and what in the world is B-Cell and T-Cell? Let’s break it down

Lymphoma is one of the most common cancers dogs are diagnosed with. This is a blood cancer that affects the lymphatic system —part of the body’s immune defense— which includes the lymph nodes, spleen, and bone marrow. The body's white blood cells (called lymphocytes) begin to grow uncontrollably.

There are many forms of lymphoma in dogs, but the most common is multicentric lymphoma, which typically shows up as enlarged lymph nodes that you might feel under the jaw, on the neck, behind the knees, or in their armpits.

📘 B-Cell vs. T-Cell Lymphoma: What’s the Difference?

Lymphocytes mature into two different types: B-cells and T-cells, both essential to a healthy immune system, but what do they do? B-cells are the body’s protectors that “mark” any viruses or bacteria that infiltrate the body by producing antibodies that attach themselves to said bacteria. These antibodies that “mark” the bacteria act like a tracker for the T-cells. The job of a T-cell is to then directly destroy any cells or bacteria that the B-cells have “marked”. The type of lymphoma your dog has depends on which of these cells has become cancerous.

B-Cell Lymphoma

• ‍More common: About two thirds of dogs diagnosed with lymphoma have the B-cell type. ‍
• Better prognosis: Dogs with B-cell lymphoma generally respond better to treatment, with longer remission times.‍
• Survival time: With chemotherapy, dogs with B-cell lymphoma have a median survival time of 12 months.

T-Cell Lymphoma

• ‍Less common: Even though these cases are less common, if your pet is diagnosed with T-cell there are still treatment options that can help. ‍
• More aggressive: Tends to progress more quickly and be more resistant to standard chemotherapy, which means the chemo protocol might have to be adjusted more frequently during their treatments, as some medications may help for a bit but then stop helping. ‍
• Prognosis: Shorter average survival time — often 6 to 9 months with treatment.

A helpful memory aid vets often use is: "B is better, T is tougher." While this isn’t a hard rule, it does reflect the general trend in treatment response.

🔬 How Is the Type Diagnosed?

Your vet may recommend additional testing after the initial diagnosis — such as flow cytometry, immunophenotyping, or PCR testing — to determine whether your dog’s lymphoma is B-cell or T-cell. Knowing the type helps your veterinary oncologist tailor the treatment plan for the best possible outcome.

❤️Moving Forward: What You Can Do

• ‍Work with a veterinary oncologist: They specialize in cancer care and can explain your options in detail if you are confused or have questions. ‍
• Explore treatment options: Chemotherapy is the most common treatment and can help your pet achieve a remission status. Unfortunately, chemotherapy alone very rarely cures cancer in animals, but a cure may be possible with a stem cell transplant. Speak more with your oncologist, or you can email us at CTAC to see if this is the right path for your pet. ‍
• Prioritize quality of life: Many dogs tolerate treatment well and can enjoy a good quality of life during therapy. Symptoms that can occur from chemotherapy are typically managed well. ‍
• Don’t hesitate to ask questions: You’re your dog’s advocate, and your voice matters in every decision.

🌟 You’re Not Alone

A lymphoma diagnosis is tough, but many pet parents have walked this road and found hope, support, and even extra years of love with their pups. Whether you’re considering treatment or just need time to process, know that there’s no "one right way" to move forward — only what’s right for you and your dog.