Renal (Kidney) Neoplasia in Dogs

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Renal (Kidney) Neoplasia in Dogs

By: Dr. Bari Spielman

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Section: Veterinary Care In-depth

Diagnosis In-depth

Certain diagnostic tests must be performed to make a definitive diagnosis of renal neoplasia and exclude other disease processes that may cause similar symptoms. Ultimately, microscopic examination of both cells and tissue is necessary to confirm a diagnosis of renal neoplasia, and to document the tumor type. A complete history, description of clinical signs, and thorough physical examination are all an important part of obtaining a diagnosis of renal neoplasia. In addition, the following tests are recommended:

A complete blood count (CBC) may be within normal limits, however may reveal anemia (low red blood cell count), polycythemia (elevated red blood cell count) and/or an elevated white blood cell count.

A biochemical profile may be within normal limits, but it may reveal elevations in kidney enzymes or electrolyte abnormalities.

A urinalysis may be normal or reveal blood in the urine, white blood cells in the urine, protein in the urine, and bacteria in the urine. Infrequently, neoplastic cells may be seen in the urinalysis.

A bacterial urine culture is performed to assess for the presence of urinary tract infections, which are generally present in one-third of patients with renal tumors.

Abdominal radiographs (X-rays) may be helpful in evaluating for renal tumors; however, if they are within normal limits, that does not rule out the possibility of a tumor.

Chest X-rays should be obtained on these patients, as many renal tumors are malignant and can metastasize or spread to the chest.

Abdominal ultrasound is helpful in evaluating the kidney and confirming the presence of a tumor. It is also helpful in evaluating the other kidney, lymph nodes and other abdominal organs for evidence of metastasis. With the guidance of ultrasound, it is often possible to obtain a sample of the tumor via aspirate or biopsy. Ultrasound is often considered the diagnostic tool of choice. The ultrasound itself is a noninvasive procedure, although sampling of the tumor tissue will often necessitate sedation or general anesthesia, and is associated with some minor risks. These procedures generally necessitate the expertise of a specialist or referral hospital.

Your veterinarian may recommend additional tests to exclude or diagnose other existing conditions. These tests are not necessary in every case, but they may be of benefit in certain individuals and are selected on a case-by-case basis. These include:

Excretory urography. An intravenous dye study "lights up" the upper urinary tract, consisting of the kidneys and ureters. It is very helpful in confirming that a mass originates in the kidney and also provides a rough estimate of renal function in the other kidney. The procedure is not recommended if there is significant renal failure, as it may be dangerous to the patient. This procedure usually requires anesthesia, and may necessitate referral.

Abdominal computed tomography (CT) is helpful in ruling out abdominal metastasis. This procedure necessitates general anesthesia and referral to an institution capable of performing it.

Treatment In-depth

Animals with renal tumors are best treated with surgery if the tumor has not metastasized and is unilateral. Specific therapy depends on the patient, tumor type, kidney involvement and associated clinical signs. Recommendations by your veterinarian should be followed very closely, and any questions or concerns that arise during the treatment protocol should be addressed immediately. Depending on the patient, recommended treatment options may vary.

Fluid therapy is indicated in those patients who are dehydrated, have severe infections or concurrent kidney failure.

Surgical removal of the tumor usually necessitates removal of the kidney (nephrectomy). The function of the other kidney should always be confirmed prior to removing the affected kidney. Excretory urography generally is the best means of evaluating kidney function. In some cases, such as in cases of nephroblastomas that are detected early, surgery may be curable. In others, surgery may prolong the life of affected individuals, although recurrence or metastasis often occurs.

Chemotherapy may be of benefit for certain tumor types, such as nephroblastoma and lymphoma. Generally, chemotherapy necessitates the use of a combination of potent drugs, and should be administered by individuals who have experience and expertise in treating these patients.

Radiation therapy may be of benefit in certain metastatic tumors, such as renal carcinoma that has spread to bone.

Antibiotic therapy is indicated in those patients with concurrent urinary tract infections.

Follow-up

Optimal treatment for your pet requires a combination of home and professional veterinary care. Follow-up can be critical, especially if your pet does not rapidly improve.

Administer all prescribed medication as directed. Alert your veterinarian if your pet is having any problems, such as respiratory difficulty or changes in urination.

General blood work, including a complete blood count and biochemical profile, may need to be reevaluated as recommended by your veterinarian.

Abdominal ultrasound, depending on the tumor type, should be followed every several months.

Thoracic radiographs may be recommended on a regular basis to assess for metastatic disease.

Long-term prognosis is poor for most of the malignant renal tumors.

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