Sertoli Cell Testicular Cancer in Dogs
Testicular cancer is fairly common in older dogs that have not been neutered; however, it can occur in dogs of any age. Dogs with undescended testicles (cryptorchid) are 10 times more likely to develop testicular cancer. Sertoli cell tumors are the most common type of testicular cancer.
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Sertoli Cell Tumor
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Sertoli cell tumors are located inside the testicles and affect specific cells called sertoli cells. Sertoli cell tumors produce estrogen and can cause feminization. These tumors are slow growing and are rarely invasive; however, 15 to 20 percent are malignant.
Symptoms
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Sertoli cell tumors cause swelling in the testicle area. One testicle may appear larger than the other, or the entire scrotal area may be enlarged. Dogs rarely show any signs of illness.
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Feminization
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Sertoli cell tumors can cause the male dog to develop feminine traits. This is called feminization syndrome and occurs in about 25 percent of dogs with sertoli cell tumors. Enlarged mammary glands, reduced penis size and swelling around the penis are common. Some male dogs may become sexually attractive to other male dogs.
Treatment
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The only treatment available is surgical removal of the testicle (castration). Female characteristics should begin to disappear 1 to 3 months following surgery. Chemotherapy may be required if the tumor has metastasized.
Prevention
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Testicular cancer can be avoided by having your dog neutered.
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