Venereal Granuloma in Dogs

Venereal Granuloma in Dogs: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Introduction

Venereal granuloma in dogs, also known as Canine Transmissible Venereal Tumor (CTVT), is a sexually transmitted tumor that primarily affects the external genitalia. It is one of the few known transmissible cancers, spreading through direct contact during mating. This condition is prevalent in free-roaming and unneutered dogs, particularly in regions with high stray dog populations.

In this blog, we will discuss the causes, clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment, and preventive measures for venereal granuloma in dogs.

Causes and Transmission of Venereal Granuloma

Venereal granuloma is caused by the Canine Transmissible Venereal Tumor (CTVT), a unique cancer that spreads through the transfer of living cancer cells. The disease is transmitted through:

  • Mating: Direct contact between affected and healthy dogs allows tumor cells to implant and grow.
  • Licking or Sniffing Infected Areas: Oral and nasal contact with affected genitalia can lead to extragenital tumors.
  • Parturition and Wound Contact: Rarely, transmission occurs through shared bedding or birth canal exposure.

CTVT is more common in sexually active stray dogs due to frequent mating and lack of veterinary care.

Clinical Signs of Venereal Granuloma in Dogs

The symptoms of venereal granuloma vary depending on tumor size, location, and stage. Common signs include:

  • Genital Tumors: Raised, ulcerated, or cauliflower-like masses on the penis, prepuce, vulva, or vagina.
  • Bleeding and Discharge: Bloody or purulent discharge from the affected area.
  • Frequent Licking: Increased grooming of the genital area due to irritation.
  • Urination Issues: Difficulty or pain while urinating, especially in males.
  • Extragenital Growths: Tumors may spread to the nose, mouth, eyes, or other mucous membranes.

Diagnosis of Venereal Granuloma

Veterinarians use several diagnostic methods to confirm CTVT:

  • Physical Examination: Visual inspection of the genitalia for characteristic tumor growth.
  • Cytology (Fine-Needle Aspiration - FNA): Microscopic evaluation of tumor cells showing large round cells with vacuolated cytoplasm.
  • Histopathology: Tissue biopsy to differentiate CTVT from other genital tumors.
  • PCR and Immunohistochemistry: Advanced tests to confirm CTVT in atypical cases.

Treatment Options for Venereal Granuloma

CTVT is highly responsive to treatment, and various therapeutic options are available:

1. Chemotherapy (Preferred Treatment)

  • Vincristine Sulfate: Weekly intravenous injections for 4-8 weeks.
  • Doxorubicin or Cyclophosphamide: Used in resistant cases.
  • Success Rate: Over 90% of cases show complete remission with chemotherapy.

2. Surgical Removal

  • Surgery is rarely recommended due to a high recurrence rate, except in isolated or resistant tumors.

3. Radiation Therapy

  • Used in cases unresponsive to chemotherapy, but it is expensive and less commonly performed.

Prevention and Control

Pet owners can reduce the risk of venereal granuloma through:

  • Spaying and Neutering: Prevents mating and reduces disease transmission.
  • Controlled Breeding: Avoids exposure to infected dogs.
  • Regular Veterinary Check-Ups: Early detection ensures timely treatment.
  • Stray Dog Management: Population control programs help reduce disease spread in free-roaming dogs.

Prognosis and Recovery

With appropriate chemotherapy, most dogs recover completely and lead normal lives. However, early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and metastasis.

Conclusion

Venereal granuloma (CTVT) is a unique transmissible tumor that primarily affects sexually active dogs. Although it can cause significant discomfort and complications, it is highly treatable with chemotherapy. Responsible pet ownership, including spaying and neutering, is essential in preventing the spread of this disease. If your dog shows signs of genital tumors or abnormal discharge, consult a veterinarian promptly for diagnosis and treatment.

References

  1. Murchison, E. P., et al. (2019). The genetics and biology of canine transmissible venereal tumors (CTVT). Veterinary Pathology, 56(2), 288-302.
  2. Strakova, A., & Murchison, E. P. (2014). The evolving landscape of canine transmissible venereal tumor genetics and immunity. Trends in Genetics, 30(4), 181-189.
  3. Withrow, S. J., Vail, D. M., & Page, R. L. (2020). Withrow and MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology (6th ed.). Elsevier.

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