Anal sac adenocarcinoma

An anal sac adenocarcinoma is an uncommon and aggressive malignant tumor found in dogs that arises from the tissue of anal sac. At least one case has been reported in a cat. They are the second most common cancerous cause of hypercalcaemia (high serum calcium) in dogs.

Signs and symptoms
Anal sac adenocarcinomas first appear as a small lump associated with one of the anal sacs, but they can grow to a large size. Smaller tumors are undetectable without a rectal examination, while larger tumors can cause pain and straining to defecate. Between 25 and 50 percent of dogs with these tumors will also develop hypercalcaemia through secretion of parathyroid hormone-related protein by the tumor. Symptoms of hypercalcaemia include increased drinking and urination, vomiting, loss of appetite, weight loss, and bradycardia (slow heart rate). Anal sac adenocarcinomas also have a tendency to metastasize to the lymph nodes, spleen, and lungs. The sublumbar (iliac) lymph nodes are the most common site of metastasis and can become larger than the original tumor.

Diagnosis
Anal sac adenocarcinomas are often suspected due to location and behavior, but a biopsy is necessary for a definitive diagnosis. Needle aspiration biopsy is a common first step. Cytology reveals clusters of cells with uniform round nuclei. These cells do not have many of the features usually associated with malignancy, such as a high nucleus to cytoplasm ratio or prominent nucleoli. Ultrasonography and radiography are performed to look for metastasis.

Treatment and prognosis
Aggressive surgical removal of the tumor and any enlarged sublumbar lymph nodes is essential for treatment of the tumor and associated hypercalcaemia. There is a high recurrence rate, although removal of lymph nodes with metastasis may improve survival time. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy may be helpful in treatment. Severe hypercalcaemia is treated with aggressive IV fluid therapy using sodium chloride and medications such as loop diuretics (increased kidney excretion of calcium) and aminobisphosphonates (decreased calcium release from bones). A poorer prognosis is associated with large tumor size (greater than 10 cm), hypercalcaemia, and generalized metastasis.

Commonly affected breeds
Breeds that may be more commonly affected include the English Cocker Spaniel, German Shepherd Dog, Alaskan Malamute, Dachshund, and Springer Spaniel.

External link

 * Anal Sac Tumors in Cats and Dogs from Pet Cancer Center
 * Anal sac gland carcinoma: veterinary factsheet from Davies Veterinary Specialists