Transmissible Venerial Tumors
General Information
Transmissible venereal tumors occur in both male and female dogs. In males they are found on the penis or the skin covering the penis, and in females they occur on the vulva and/or vagina. They may also be found on the face or legs of both sexes. Tumors may be single or multiple. They are transmitted during sexual intercourse or through licking, biting and other contact.
Dribbling of blood from the genitals or visible growths are the most common signs of this disease. Some venereal tumors may disappear without treatment.
Understanding Your Pet's Medical Diagnosis
What is transmissible venereal tumor?
Transmissible venereal tumor is a sexually transmitted, naturally occurring tumor in dogs. It appears as a red, lumpy (lobulated) mass located on the moist tissues (mucosa) of the vagina or penis. The lining of the mouth or the nose may be affected.
What causes transmissible venereal tumor?
Transmissible venereal tumor is passed from one dog to another by direct contact. The tumor cells are transplanted directly by sexual contact or sniffing or licking the tumor. Sexually intact, free-roaming dogs are at greater risk for developing transmissible venereal tumor than are other dogs.
What are the signs of transmissible venereal tumor?
Blood dripping from the vagina or penis
Excessive licking of the genital area
Protrusion of the tumor from the vagina or penis
Tumor in the mouth or nose
How is transmissible venereal tumor diagnosed?
Transmissible venereal tumor is diagnosed by physical examination. The veterinarian may draw a sample of fluid from the tumor with a needle and syringe and examine it under a microscope. The cells of transmissible venereal tumor have a characteristic appearance. Biopsy (surgical removal and microscopic examination of a specimen of the tumor) provides a definitive diagnosis.
How is transmissible venereal tumor treated?
Transmissible venereal tumor may disappear spontaneously, but treatment is recommended. Radiation therapy or chemotherapy is reported to be curative. The veterinarian may recommend spaying (ovariohysterectomy) or castration of intact animals.
What is the prognosis for dogs with transmissible venereal tumor?
The prognosis (outcome) for dogs with transmissible venereal
tumor that undergo treatment is excellent.
Important Points in Treatment
1. Surgical removal is the most effective treatment for venereal tumors. Inoperable tumors and some recurring growths are treated with chemotherapy or irradiation.
Recommendations: ___________________________________________________________
2. Activity: Your dog should be confined for ____ days. Walk your dog on a leash to allow elimination. Do not allow your dog to run free.
3. Elimination: Check your dog's urination daily. Report any abnormalities to the doctor.
4. Diet: Ordinarily no special diet is required.
5. Surgical patients:
Check the incision once or twice daily.
Report any abnormalities to the doctor.
Your dog will be evaluated for suture removal in ____ days.
6. Special instructions: __________________________________________________________
Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:
* Your dog bleeds from the genitals.
* Your dog has an abnormal discharge from the genitals.
* Your dog is reluctant to eat.
* Your dog's general health changes.
* Your dog is depressed.
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