Fibrosarcoma is a type of cancer that arises from the fibrous connective tissues of the body. Connective tissue is the supporting tissue of the body. Types of connective tissue include gums, bone, cartilage, and ligaments. Fibrosarcoma of the gingival (gums) refers to the location of the tumor. It is a slow-progressing, locally invasive and low-malignancy tumor that rarely metastasize to other parts of the body although it can invade the nearby tissues and bones aggressively. The most common location for a fibrosarcoma of the the mouth is in the gums (gingiva). This tumor is commonly seen in upper jaw of the dog although it occurs in lower jaw as well.
The mean age of dogs affected by this tumor is seven and half years although it is seen in dogs from the age of six months to fifteen years. Golden Retrievers and larger breed dogs are more prone to this tumor and it affects male dogs more than female.
Common symptoms associated with this tumor include
Excess salivation
Bad breath (halitosis)
Loose teeth
Difficulty picking up food
Difficulty chewing food (dysphagia)
Blood coming from the mouth
A growth in the mouth
Weight loss
