Adenocarcinoma in dogs

Adenocarcinomas are malignant tumors in dogs that can occur in different organs. It is a malignant tumour that originates from the epithelial layer of glandular tissue. These tumours are usually very aggressive and form often metastases. This means that they spread to other organs. Due to the high aggressiveness of adenocarcinomas, it is important that they are detected and  diagnosed in time. Following the exact diagnosis treated in your dog as soon as possible.

• Occurrence
• Symptoms
• Diagnosis
• Treatment

Occurrence of adenocarcinoma in dogs

An adenocarcinoma can be localized in many organs. These include, for example, the stomach, small intestine, large and rectum or the area around and around the anus. Adenocarcinomas can also occur in the liver, lungs or eyes.

Tumors in the gastrointestinal tract and the abdominal cavity may occur, but are relatively rare.

Symptoms of adenocarcinoma

Case Description - Adenocarcinoma in the Kelpie bitch Missi

Depending on the localization, adenocarcinomas manifest themselves through various symptoms. These are usually rather unspecific, so they cannot be immediately assigned to a certain disease. This makes the initial diagnosis much more difficult, as the owner of the animal often does not know exactly where the symptoms originate from.

Often loss of appetite, weight loss and vomiting are observed in sick dogs. Diarrhoea and altered faeces (in colour and shape) may also occur. Also great thirst or a general exhaustion are not rare.

In the case of malignant tumours in the lungs, the symptoms of the dogs may be somewhat more specific. Adenocarcinoma is often associated with respiratory problems and chronic cough in addition to other signs.

Diagnosis of adenocarcinoma in dogs

The dog owner often has a certain suspicion when certain symptoms are observed over a longer period of time. However, a final diagnosis can only be made by the veterinarian. Depending on the location of the tumor, the veterinarian first scans the affected area. This is followed by fine needle aspiration. A sample of the cells is taken with a fine needle and examined microscopically. For the final diagnosis a tissue sample is taken and examined.

Treatment for your dog with adenocarcinoma

The best possible therapy also depends on the location of the adenocarcinoma in your dog. In the first place is usually an operation. The operation tries to remove as much tumor mass as possible. The more adenocarcinoma can be removed, the better the prognosis for your dog. An operation forms a particularly promising basis if the tumour has not spread yet.

Dendritic cell therapy can also be used to improve the quality of life, increase life expectancy and reduce the risk of recurrence of adenocarcinoma in your dog. Our gentle treatment method builds up your favourite's immune system and can be used in addition to other therapies (e.g. together with radiation or chemotherapy).