Seminoma

Seminoma

By: Dr. Douglas Brum

Section: Overview

A seminoma is a tumor of the testicle that involves the germinal cells that normally produce sperm cells. The majority of seminomas are benign, usually slow growing, and not invasive. Five to ten percent are malignant.

The specific cause of tumor development is unknown, but dogs that are cryptorchid, which means that one testicle has not descended into the scrotum, are ten times more likely to develop a tumor. Cyrptorchid testicles are generally within the abdomen, but may be under the skin in the inguinal area, or the area of the body where the hind leg meets the body wall. Cryptorchid testicles are also much more likely to be malignant.

Breeds at greater risk of cryptorchidism such as Weimaraners and ShetlandShetland Sheepdog Book
Shetland Sheepdogs are handsome work dogs that are closely related to the larger Collie, which they closely resemble. They also make wonderful ho...
sheepdogs are more likely to develop a seminoma. BoxersBoxer Owners Book
This companionable, quick-to-learn breed has long been a favorite among dog owners. Books in Barron's Complete Pet Owner's Manuals series pres...
are at increased risk of all testicular tumors regardless of cryptorchidism.

Dogs are more likely to develop a seminoma as they age.



Seminomas rarely may produce elevated androgen (male sex hormone) levels or lead to a male feminization syndrome. Seminomas can also cause a severe bone marrow disorder (bone marrow hypoplasia). This is also an unusual occurrence. Most dogs with seminomas are not ill, and many are simply found during a routine physical examination.

What to Watch For

  • Soft swellings in one or both testicles
  • A single enlarged testicle or asymmetric testicles
  • Generalized scrotal enlargement
  • Infertility in the breeding stud dog
  • Enlargement of the mammary glands
  • Symmetrical hair loss
  • Hyperpigmentation (darkening or turning black) of the skin
  • Decreased libido and a pendulous prepuce
  • Excessive androgen secretion may also produce signs of prostatic and perianal disease, or diseases around the anus

    Diagnosis

  • A good physical examination including palpation of the testicles
  • Complete blood count (CBC)
  • Platelet count
  • Biochemical profile
  • Urinalysis with or without culture and sensitivity
  • Chest and abdominal X-rays
  • Abdominal and or scrotal ultrasound
  • Fine needle aspiration
  • Biopsy and histopathology (microscopic analysis of tissue) of removed testicle or tumor

    Treatment

  • Surgical removal of the involved testes (orchiectomy)
  • Chemotherapy if the tumor has metastasized (spread)
  • Radiation therapy
  • Supportive care if associated disease conditions are present

    Home Care and Prevention

    Watch the incision daily for any sign of swelling or discharge. The scrotal sack may be slightly swollen post-operatively, but this should slowly resolve within a week or two. If skin sutures are used, they should be removed in 7 to 10 days.

    If your dog begins to lick the area excessively, an Elizabethan collar may be required to prevent licking at incisions.

    Seek veterinary care if your dog has a fever or is feeling ill post-operatively. If your dog had bone marrow hypoplasia due to the seminoma, close monitoring of blood tests will be required.

    An excellent preventive measure is to have your dog neutered (castrated) at an early age.

     
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