http://www.ehow.com/about_6612581_epitheliotropic-lymphoma-dogs.html?ref=Track2&utm_source=askI had to check about this because we lost the final hound of our bloodline to oral cancer but it wasn't said to be this. The lymphoma we had with another oldie (he was over 12 when I felt a mass in his neck) was a complete shock too because other than the mass, he was otherwise fit and well. A fine needle aspiration into the rear lymphs came back positive. Because of his age, we opted for no treatment and he lived on for a further 6 months, fit and well - to the point I started to think the diagnosis was wrong! Sadly not so - his system crashed one afternoon ... he didn't arrive for his tea with the others and I found him collapsed in the garden. It was very sudden, but at least we had him for 6 more months of what I'd suggest was excellent quality life.
Wishing you and your bitch the best - we've had too many different cancers in our hounds over the years, all thankfully in oldies. But still very distressing - and my then vet was always equally upset not to be able to offer a cure.