What causes a lump by the anal sac (anal gland)?

Our question this week was:

Dr. Debra – My dog is having her anal sacs removed along with a tumor about the size of a pea that was found next to the left sac. Are these generally related on just a coincidence? The tumor isn't tender to the touch or hot, but I don't think that it has been there long. This could be due to the build-up in the sac that pushed it out.

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Virginia Noll

Answer

Hi – thanks for your email. You wrote that your dog is having her anal sacs removed as well as a small mass and wonder what the cause of the mass is. Some dogs can develop tumors around the perianal area and others can develop tumors of the anal glands. When your veterinarian removes it – he or she may be able to determine which is the case. They will probably want to submit the tissue for biopsy to determine if it is cancerous.

An article that might be helpful to you is Anal Sac Disease in Dogs and Anal Glands in Dogs.

Best of luck!

Dr. Debra

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