What will happen if a rat's tumor is not treated? - briefly
If a tumor in a rat remains untreated, it will continue to grow, invading surrounding tissues and eventually compromising vital organ function, leading to severe health decline and death.
What will happen if a rat's tumor is not treated? - in detail
An untreated neoplasm in a laboratory rat follows a predictable biological course. As the malignant cells proliferate, the primary mass expands, compressing surrounding tissues and impairing organ function. Local invasion may breach organ capsules, leading to necrosis, hemorrhage, and pain. Systemic effects arise when cancer cells enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system; metastases commonly appear in the lungs, liver, and bone marrow, further compromising physiological processes.
Key consequences include:
- Rapid tumor growth that outstrips its blood supply, causing hypoxia and central necrosis.
- Release of cytokines and growth factors that trigger cachexia, weight loss, and weakened immune response.
- Disruption of normal metabolism, resulting in altered glucose handling, anemia, and electrolyte imbalance.
- Increased morbidity and mortality, with typical survival times ranging from weeks to a few months depending on tumor type and aggressiveness.
Pathophysiological mechanisms driving these outcomes involve angiogenesis, evasion of apoptosis, and genetic instability. Without therapeutic intervention, the animal experiences progressive decline in locomotor activity, reduced food and water intake, and eventual organ failure. Euthanasia is often required to prevent prolonged suffering once clinical signs indicate terminal disease.