Testicular tumors are the second most common type of tumor in male dogs and account for four to seven percent of all tumors in dogs overall. There are different types of tumors, with dogs with one or two undescended testicles (= cryptorchidism) having a significantly increased risk of developing a testicular tumor.
The exact causes of the various testicular tumors remain unclear. It is suspected that various factors lead to damage to the testicular tissue, thereby promoting the development of a tumor. In cryptorchid males, it is assumed that the higher temperature in the abdominal cavity is partly responsible for the development of a testicular tumor. Environmental toxins, radiation, infections, and injuries are also suspected triggers.
On average, older dogs (between nine and eleven years old) are affected. Boxers, German shepherds, and miniature poodles are predisposed to this disease.
The main symptom of the various types of tumors is enlargement of one or both testicles with swelling of the scrotum, which is usually first noticed by the owner. Lumps in the testicular tissue can also be felt at an early stage by palpation.
Further signs of the disease vary depending on the type of tumor.
The most common types of tumors in male dogs are:
These tumors originate from the Leydig cells (cells located between the testicular ducts that produce hormones). They are small and well-defined, rarely malignant, and are usually discovered by chance. They produce male sex hormones but rarely cause feminization or prostate enlargement.
A seminoma usually consists of several tumor foci originating from the seminiferous tubules, which grow rapidly and are painful. They are occasionally malignant but rarely metastasize (spread). Feminization is also rather rare.
This type of tumor has the greatest impact on the general condition of the animal. Originating in the supporting cells of the seminiferous tubules, Sertoli cell tumors are usually malignant and can metastasize. The unaffected testicle atrophies. The tumors produce estrogen (female sex hormone), leading to significant feminization. Affected animals suffer from loss of libido and become attractive to other males. Externally, a slackening of the abdominal wall, symmetrical hair loss on the thighs and abdomen, and enlargement of the teats (gynecomastia) may be observed. Prolonged estrogen release can damage the bone marrow and lead to anemia. Affected animals become apathetic, show increased breathing and heart rates, pale mucous membranes, and decreased performance. As the disease progresses, there is also a decrease in white blood cells and platelets, making the animal more susceptible to infections. To prevent life-threatening bone marrow damage, it is particularly important that the disease is detected and treated at an early stage.
Prostate enlargement leading to impaired defecation and urination, as well as perianal gland tumors and perianal hernias (= perineal hernias) are also common consequences of a Sertoli cell tumor, but can also occur with other testicular tumors.
The veterinarian can usually make an initial diagnosis based on a clinical examination. A follow-up ultrasound examination can confirm the diagnosis and rule out testicular inflammation.
To locate potential metastases (= secondary tumors), an X-ray examination of the chest and abdominal cavity is often performed. Furthermore, a blood count provides valuable information about the general condition of the dog. Any abnormalities may already indicate a specific type of tumor. In order to determine the exact type of tumor, a histopathological examination (microscopic examination of tissue) of the removed testicular tissue is absolutely necessary.
Even though not all testicular tumors tend to metastasize, they should always be surgically removed as soon as possible. Castration is an effective treatment for the disease and significantly reduces the risk of metastasis. In most cases where metastasis has already been diagnosed, the veterinarian will initiate accompanying chemotherapy.
If the disease is detected and treated in time, the prognosis for a full recovery is good. Hormone-related changes to the skin and coat usually disappear on their own after removal of the testicles. However, a thorough examination to check for any metastases is essential for an accurate prognosis. If metastases are already present and are large, the prognosis is generally poor.
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