Prostate Cancer in Pets
Although almost unheard of in cats, prostate cancer can affect older dogs, whether or not they are neutered. The disease is eventually fatal, but there are some treatment options and the prognosis really depends upon the type of cancer, rate of growth and overall health of the dog.
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Types of Prostate Cancer
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Most prostate tumors are carcinomas, which tend to spread to other tissues. According to The Dog Health Guide, the most common types are adenocarcinoma, transitional cell carcinoma and undifferentiated carcinoma.
Symptoms
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The most visual symptom is severe weight loss and walking with an arched back. This happens because the dog is in severe pain and is trying to take pressure off of the prostate as he walks. There may be blood in the urine or he may strain to urinate.
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Diagnosis
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A urinalysis can confirm that blood is present in the urine, and x-rays or ultrasounds can help determine the size of the tumor and whether or not it has spread. A biopsy of the rectal wall is a definitive way to verify the type of cells present and determine the best course of treatment.
Treatment
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Removal of the prostate can cause major problems for the dog, so surgery is usually not an option. Chemotherapy and radiation can help alleviate pain and slow the progression of the disease and anti-androgen drugs can help control hormone-responsive tumors.
Prognosis
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Unfortunately, prostate cancer does not respond readily to chemotherapy and radiation in many cases and the median survival time is around 30 days according to The Dog Health Guide. However, aggressive treatment can allow some dogs to live for up to a year.
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References
- Photo Credit hot-dog image by Deborah Durbin from Fotolia.com
