Lower Urinary Tract Cancers in Dogs

Cancer is defined as uncontrolled, abnormal cell growth, which often develops into masses (tumors). Cancers of the lower urinary tract include those associated with the bladder, urethra (tube that carries urine from the bladder to outside the body), and in males, the prostate gland. Cancer can significantly impact the function of these essential organs.

The symptoms of lower urinary tract cancers are similar to most diseases of the urinary system. Veterinary investigation is required to determine the root cause and severity. Prognosis is usually poor for lower urinary tract cancers, but prompt investigation and treatment can improve quality of life and help slow disease progression.

Cancer of the lower urinary tract is an uncommon occurrence of older dogs. Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the bladder, the most common cancer of the lower urinary tract, comprises less than 2% of all canine cancers.

Many of these symptoms result when cancer spreads to lymph nodes, the lungs, or the skeletal system.

Environmental components that are thought to contribute to cancers of the lower urinary tract are chemicals such as insecticides or chemotherapeutic agents. One study showed that dogs exposed to lawn pesticides in particular were 7 times more likely to develop TCC.

Cancer is a disease in which some of the body’s cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body. Potential causes of lower urinary tract cancer are thought to include both genetic and environmental factors.

Steps to diagnose cancers of the lower urinary tract aim to differentiate cancer from more benign causes that have similar symptoms. Diagnostic tools include:

• Physical exam
• Urinalysis
• Diagnostic imaging
• Cytology
• Biopsy: required to confirm diagnosis of cancer

Once a diagnosis of cancer is made, the stage of disease is determined with further diagnostic imaging to assess tumor size and spread.

Treatment of lower urinary tract cancers depends on the location and type of cancer. Surgical removal of tumors is performed if possible. Medications to shrink tumors and/or chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy may also be recommended.

Some cases may be managed with supportive care, which includes:

• Antibiotics for secondary infections
• Surgical methods to divert urine around a tumor
• Debulking of the tumor via laser ablation

Palliative and hospice care are additional options.

Prognosis is typically poor and depends on which portion of the lower urinary tract is affected, how aggressive the tumor is, and how aggressively and promptly treatment is initiated.

Left untreated, cancer of the lower urinary tract in dogs usually results in euthanasia within 2-4 months of diagnosis. With treatment, patients have a median survival time of 8-11 months.

Chances of developing cancers of the lower urinary tract may be lowered by eliminating exposure to chemicals and pesticides. Cancers of the lower urinary tract are not contagious.

Cancers of the lower urinary tract are uncommon in dogs. A genetic predisposition is suggested.

• Surgical resection
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation
• NSAIDs (anti-tumor action as well as anti-inflammatory
• Stent placement to divert urine around a tumor
• Antibiotics for secondary infections
• Palliative and hospice care