Apocrine Gland Tumor of the Anal Sac in Dogs (Anal Sac Adenocarcinoma) – Characteristics, Treatment Methods, Tips for Improvement and CureThe Power of Immunity to Defeat Apocrine Gland Carcinoma

What is Apocrine Gland Anal Sac Adenocarcinoma in Dogs?

Dogs have anal sacs located on both sides of the anus (at the 4 o’clock and 8 o’clock positions). These sacs store secretions. When the apocrine glands within these sacs become tumorous, the condition is referred to as “apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma.” This malignant tumor is commonly seen in elderly females and is characterized by rapid growth of the tumor mass and strong infiltration into the lumbar lymph nodes.

In elderly males, a tumor known as “perianal adenoma” can be observed. This is a benign tumor influenced by male hormones. For more information on perianal adenoma, please click here: ⇒ Perianal Adenoma in Dogs

Causes of Apocrine Gland Anal Sac Adenocarcinoma in Dogs

Although it is more commonly seen in elderly female dogs, the exact cause of its occurrence is not clearly known.

Symptoms of Apocrine Gland Anal Sac Adenocarcinoma in Dogs

Symptoms include straining (frequent urge to defecate), licking the perineal area, bloody stools, and as the tumor enlarges, defecation difficulties and pain may be observed. Additionally, symptoms of excessive drinking and urination due to hypercalcemia (abnormally high calcium levels in the blood) can also occur. Hypercalcemia places a burden on the kidneys, so kidney care is also crucial.

Treatment for Apocrine Gland Anal Sac Adenocarcinoma in Dogs

Surgery

This is the first treatment of choice. However, since there is a high likelihood of lumbar lymph node metastasis at the time of diagnosis, surgery is often combined with radiation therapy and chemotherapy postoperatively.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy may be used to target any remaining cancer cells or metastatic sites. Recently, molecular targeted drugs have also been utilized. However, due to the high malignancy and resistance to chemotherapy of this cancer, many veterinarians prioritize maintaining the dog’s strength and QOL (quality of life) over chemotherapy.

Radiation Therapy

While surgery is the primary treatment for apocrine gland adenocarcinoma, radiation therapy may be added postoperatively to target remaining cancer cells or metastatic sites. In cases where surgery is difficult, radiation therapy might be considered depending on the circumstances.

High Recurrence Rate Post-Surgery

Postoperative local recurrence rate for apocrine gland adenocarcinoma is about 50%, with an average life expectancy of about 1 year according to statistical data. It is essential to focus on boosting the immune system to minimize cancer recurrence and metastasis even after surgery.

Prevention of Apocrine Gland Anal Sac Adenocarcinoma in Dogs

Regularly perform body checks and ensure there are no lumps around the anus. If you notice any concerning lumps, please consult your primary veterinarian promptly.

Preventive Measures for Apocrine Gland Anal Sac Adenocarcinoma in Dogs

Since the treatment for apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma is not curative, the dog’s physical strength and immune system play significant roles in their prognosis.

Cordy, which is expected to aid in immune modulation, may help in inhibiting tumor growth and preventing recurrence. There have been cases showing improvement in apocrine gland adenocarcinoma.

While the extent of the response is uncertain, there is a good chance that the dog will regain its appetite and vitality.

Of course, for prevention as well, Cordy is very safe to use and does not have the side effects associated with pharmaceutical drugs. Regardless of whether it’s for apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma or other cancers, prevention is considered the most effective strategy.

Our laboratory is researching whether administering Cordy can modulate the immune system and potentially have an effect on cancer.

If recommended chemotherapy for apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma, we advise you to thoroughly check whether the expected therapeutic benefits and side effects would not deteriorate the dog’s quality of life (QOL) before deciding on the treatment.

If you decide to undergo chemotherapy, consider using Cordy for immune support and domestic SPF pig-derived placenta extract for liver and kidney care to help mitigate side effects and potentially improve QOL.

If you have any questions, please contact us.

監修獣医師：林美彩　　所属クリニック：chicoどうぶつ診療所

代替療法と西洋医学、両方の動物病院での勤務経験と多数のコルディの臨床経験をもつ。　モノリス在籍時には、一般的な動物医療（西洋医学）だけでは対応が困難な症例に対して多くの相談を受け、免疫の大切さを痛烈に実感する。
ペットたちの健康維持・改善のためには薬に頼った対処療法だけではなく、「普段の生活環境や食事を見直し、自宅でさまざまなケアを取り入れることで免疫力を維持し、病気にならない体づくりを目指していくことが大切である」という考えを提唱し普及活動に従事している。

所属：

• 獣医保健ソーシャルワーク協会

著書：

• 獣医師が考案した長生き犬ごはん 安心・簡単・作り置きOK!
• 獣医師が考案した長生き猫ごはん　安心・簡単・作り置きＯＫ！
• 獣医師が考案した一汁一菜長生き犬ごはん こだわりの安心レシピ&作り置きOK!