Dr. Al Townshend
Cancer of the canine urinary bladder is considered to be a rare occurrence. It is estimated to be only 1-2 percent of all canine cancers; however, that estimate means that approximately 50,000 dogs will develop a form of bladder cancer each year.
Like all cancers, no one has all the answers as to the cause. Studies have suggested that there is a genetic link and certain environmental factors can play a role.
Particular breeds have an increased incidence of bladder cancer; Scottish Terrier, West Highland White Terrier, Beagle, Shetland Sheepdog, Wire Fox Terrier, and American Eskimo Dog.
Chronic exposure to lawn herbicides and pesticides has also been a common finding with those pets diagnosed with bladder cancer.
The signs of bladder cancer are very similar to other medical conditions that occur frequently in dogs, urinary tract infections, and bladder stones.
As the tumor progresses, the typical signs oof cancer begin to develop.
The most common bladder cancer in dogs is a Transitional Cell Carcinoma. It is a highly malignant cancer that has a history of spreading rapidly to other areas of the body. There are other cancers that affect the urinary system but on a much less frequent level.
A combination of a complete physical exam, lab tests of the blood and urine, X-rays, ultrasound, imaging, and a biopsy are all used to rule out more common conditions and pinpoint the problem and location within the bladder. Tests are also used to determine if the cancer has already spread (about 25% of cases have spread at the time of diagnosis).
If the pet is of one of the breeds that is known to have a genetic predisposition, or the family within the breed has a history of Transitional Carcinoma, there is a specific and accurate urine test, the Cadet BRAF Test that identifies a genetic mutation that occurs in about 80% of dogs with the disease. Early testing can give the pet the best chance of a more positive prognosis.
Surgery is the best option; however, surgery is not always possible. A lot depends on the size and location within the bladder. If the tumor is close to the base of the bladder (known as the Trigone) or around one of the tubes that drains urine from the kidney to the bladder, surgery is usually not possible. If the tumor has already spread, surgery would not be the best option.
Chemotherapy and radiation have also been used in combination with surgery and separately if surgery is not an option.
If the tumor is too far advanced, palliative care to maintain the best quality of life for the longest period of time may be the best option for the pert and the Guardian family.
As with any disease, a close working relationship with the trusted veterinarian and veterinary specialists is essential to make the best choices for the pet and the Guardian family.
Transitional Cell Carcinomas are highly malignant and spread rapidly in most cases, so the long-term out-look is generally poor. Life expectancy without treatment is between 4-6 months, with surgery, 6-12 months.
In any case, keeping the pet as comfortable as possible for as long as possible is always the ultimate goal
Preventing cancer is about the life-style we choose for ourselves and our pets, and in spite of all the very best intentions, cancer is still an all-too-common condition for our pets and for us as well. Key factors would include:
In the case of bladder cancer, avoiding exposure to yard herbicides and pesticides.
For pets of the most susceptible breeds over six years of age, periodic screening with the Cadet BRAF Tests can offer the best chance of catching the disease early.
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