Renal neoplasia is cancer located in the kidney. Renal neoplasia can originate in the kidney (primary) or spread or metastasize to the kidney from another site (secondary). Most renal tumors are seen in middle aged to older dogs and cats. Nephroblastomas, rapidly developing malignant tumors, are seen in younger animals. Carcinomas are thought to be more prevalent in the male dog.

Generally, there are no specific causes of cancer identified and cancer of the kidney is rare in dogs and cats. Renal cystadenocarcinoma, a type of cancer with extensive cyst formation, appears to be inherited in the German shepherd dog.

What to Watch For

Early in the illness, many individuals do not show any clinical signs. However, later signs include:

Weight loss

Depression

Inappetence

Lethargy

Blood in the urine

Abdominal distension

Anemia

Excessive drinking and urinating

In cases of cystadenocarcinomas, watch for multiple skin nodules over the head, neck and extremities.

Diagnosis

Complete blood count (CBC)

Biochemical profile

Urinalysis

Urine culture and sensitivity

Abdominal X-rays

Chest X-rays

Abdominal ultrasound

Intravenous pyelogram

Abdominal exploratory and biopsy

Treatment

Hospitalization and support as needed, including fluid therapy and blood transfusions

Nephrectomy, or the surgical removal of the kidney and associated tumor, if it occurs in only one kidney

Chemotherapy

Radiation therapy

Home Care and Prevention

Administer medication and diet as directed by your veterinarian. Return for follow-up as directed.

Prognosis varies depending on the tumor type and ability to surgically remove the tumor. There is no known prevention of renal cancer.