Dog Bladder Cancer
From Pet Health Learning Center
Dog Bladder Cancer
The bladder is the most common site for Dog Cancer in dogs than in any another organ of the urinary tract. Currently responsible for only 1% of all forms of cancer in canines, the rate of bladder cancer in dogs has risen over 200% within the last 10 years.
Most Common Type of Bladder Cancer in Dogs
The most prominent form of this cancer is known as invasive transitional cell carcinoma, or TCC. TCC tends to affect the trigobe, which is the neck area of the bladder. A malignant tumor is found near this location, obstructing the flow of urine from the ureters into the bladder. Though it generally begins in the bladder, TCC can spread to the lungs, liver, kidneys, and other vital organs. Most dogs have a poor outlook by the time this bladder cancer is diagnosed.
Causes of Bladder Cancer
There is no exact cause of any form of bladder cancer in dogs. As far as TCC is concerned, some of the links may include genetic predisposition, hydrocarbons, and environmental influences. A few breeds are more susceptible to getting TCC than others, such as the Beagle, Wire Fox Terrier, and West Highland White Terrier. Certain Dog Fleas and tick shampoos and medications have been thought to cause some forms of bladder cancer in dogs as well. Secondhand smoke, which is found to be a cause for TCC in humans, may also be a reason for the bladder cancer found in canines.
Signs and Symptoms
The symptoms of bladder cancer all are noticed within the process of urination. Hematuria, which is a brownish or bloody tint to the urine, is a common sign that something is wrong with the bladder or surrounding organs. Other symptoms include Dog Increased Urination, difficulty or pain while urinating, and inadequate responses to antibiotics when treated for a urinary tract infection.
Diagnosis of Bladder Cancer in Dogs
A bladder cancer diagnosis is typically confirmed with a series of test performed on the dog. A complete medical history will be completed, as well as a physical examination. X-rays and ultrasounds can be performed to check for tumors within the bladder. Analysis of the urine may also be done to check for blood cells, bacteria, and crystals. A cystoscopy made also be conducted, which involves inserting a scope into the urinary tract for an internal look at the bladder.
Radiation therapy is a form of treatment for bladder cancer in dogs that can sometimes be effective. It can assist with controlling the growth of a tumor. However, there are side effects, such as irritation to nearby organs as well as damage to the tissues in the bladder. Because of the possible harm, most vets treat the condition with medication. Chemotherapy and NSAID's are the most common forms of this therapy. Chemo is very invasive on the dog's body, and can cause problems with bone marrow production as well as toxicity in the kidneys and intestines. For this reason, NSAID's are the most successful method of treatment for bladder cancer in dogs.
Additional Dog Cancer Pages
Dog Cancer | Dog Skin Cancer | Dog Lung Cancer | Dog Pancreatic Cancer | Dog Bone Cancer | Dog Cancer Prevention | Dog Cancer Diagnosis | Dog Lymphoma Cancer | Dog Gastric Cancer | Dog Mast Cell Tumors