Systemic histiocytosis may under go several remissions or none at all before finally affecting internal organs. In all cases owners should observe their dogs quality of life closely to determine the appropriate time for euthanasia. There are no successful treatments for histiocytosis at this time. Because the histiocytes metastasize easily and rapidly surgical removal of affected tissues is not effective. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy have been used with some short term success but they are not a cure.
Care is generally limited to providing comfort until euthanasia is indicated.
Histiocytosis is known to be inherited in Bernese Mountain dogs. The mode of inheritance is polygenic meaning that many genes are involved. The disease often appears after a dog has been bred so without a conscientious effort by all breeders and owners it cannot be eliminated from the gene pool.