Transitional cell carcinoma in dogs is a spreading and malignant type of cancer developing from the intermediary epithelium (the lining of the urinary tract system which is highly stretchable) of the vagina, prostate, urethra (the tube where the urine flows from the bladder to the external environment), urinary bladder, ureters (the tubes where the urine pass through from the kidneys to the bladder) and the kidney.
The most common causal agents of transitional cell carcinoma in dogs include flea-control products such as cyclophosphamide, carbamate and organophosphates. In addition to this, transitional cell carcinoma in dogs is commonly found in female dogs.
The Different Types and Symptoms of Transitional Cell Carcinoma in Dogs
Abdomen and chest x-rays will also be taken to check for any potential spread of the cancer. To thoroughly examine the kidneys, bladder and urinary tract, a procedure called intravenous pyelography will be conducted to take an X-ray image of the urinary system. During the intravenous pyelography procedure, a dye will be introduced to the bloodstreams. These shall be absorbed by the kidneys and flow through the urethra, bladder and ureters. The distinctive dye shall be visible on the X-ray imaging allowing the internal organs to be seen and checked to be functioning abnormally or normally. Other contrasting dye techniques can be used to image the urinary tract may be used, in place or in addition to an intravenous pyelography procedure. These include the following:
The former X-ray procedure is indicated if vaginal or urethral disease is suspected. The best way to image the mass(es) that are usually situated at the urinary bladder trigone (a triangular part inside the bladder) is through double-contrast cytosgraphy.
A biopsy of the mass shall be taken for a confirmative diagnosis for transitional cell carcinoma in dogs. Biopsies may be taken through the following procedures:
To address any co-existing infections in the urinary tract, antibiotics based on sensitivity and culture results must be prescribed.
Tumors may not be typically removed through surgical procedures. While a cure is not possible, the speed and severity of the diseases can be delayed and slowed down. It is also important to note that chest x-rays must be conducted every 3 months to check if the cancer has spread or not. So as a responsible pet owner, you must adhere to all the things prescribed by the veterinarian.
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The most common causal agents of transitional cell carcinoma in dogs include flea-control products such as cyclophosphamide, carbamate and organophosphates. In addition to this, transitional cell carcinoma in dogs is commonly found in female dogs.
The Different Types and Symptoms of Transitional Cell Carcinoma in Dogs
- Urinary incontinence manifested by wetting on the bed, furniture and on the floor
- Dysuria, manifested by hardship in urinating
- Hematuria or blood in the urine
- Pollakiuria or repeated urination in small amounts
- Straining to urinate
Diagnosis of Transitional Cell Carcinoma in Dogs
The veterinarian will conduct a thorough physical examination of the dog. The vet will consider the possible incidents and the background history of the signs and symptoms that may have caused this condition. Pet owners must be able to supply a complete history of their dog’s health that led to the development of the symptoms. The vet will also order a complete blood analysis including an electrolyte panel, a urinalysis, complete blood count, and a chemical blood profile. Because a coexisting urinary tract infection is common, urine samples would also be sent for sensitivity and culture testing.Abdomen and chest x-rays will also be taken to check for any potential spread of the cancer. To thoroughly examine the kidneys, bladder and urinary tract, a procedure called intravenous pyelography will be conducted to take an X-ray image of the urinary system. During the intravenous pyelography procedure, a dye will be introduced to the bloodstreams. These shall be absorbed by the kidneys and flow through the urethra, bladder and ureters. The distinctive dye shall be visible on the X-ray imaging allowing the internal organs to be seen and checked to be functioning abnormally or normally. Other contrasting dye techniques can be used to image the urinary tract may be used, in place or in addition to an intravenous pyelography procedure. These include the following:
- X-ray dyes introduced through the vagina or Vaginogram
- X-ray dyes as the dog urinates or Voiding Urethrogram
The former X-ray procedure is indicated if vaginal or urethral disease is suspected. The best way to image the mass(es) that are usually situated at the urinary bladder trigone (a triangular part inside the bladder) is through double-contrast cytosgraphy.
A biopsy of the mass shall be taken for a confirmative diagnosis for transitional cell carcinoma in dogs. Biopsies may be taken through the following procedures:
- Cystoscopy – a procedure that involves the use of a tiny camera with other instruments attached
- Exploratory laparotomy or an abdominal surgical procedure; or
- Traumatic catheterization or introducing a catheter into the mass(es)
Treatment Strategies for Transitional Cell Carcinoma
This condition can spread very rapidly. There have been numerous reports of surgical procedures leading to the spread of the cancer. Placement of the tube into the bladder may largely prolong the time of survival by preventing the blockage in the urethra. Radiotherapy which is administered during surgical procedures is indicated to lead in longer survival periods and better local control than chemotherapy. The possible adverse effects of radiotherapy during surgical procedure include fibrosis and urinary bladder with urinary incontinence.To address any co-existing infections in the urinary tract, antibiotics based on sensitivity and culture results must be prescribed.
Tumors may not be typically removed through surgical procedures. While a cure is not possible, the speed and severity of the diseases can be delayed and slowed down. It is also important to note that chest x-rays must be conducted every 3 months to check if the cancer has spread or not. So as a responsible pet owner, you must adhere to all the things prescribed by the veterinarian.
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