Prostate Disease

INTRODUCTION
The prostate is located at the base of the bladder and encircles the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside. The prostate produces a milky fluid, which provides an optimum environment for sperm.

BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERTROPHY
As intact male dogs get older, the prostate can enlarge due to the presence of testosterone. In most cases this benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) does not cause problems, however, in some dogs, the enlarged prostate can put pressure on the colon. Straining to defecate may occur or your pet's stool may be ribbon-like. More than 80% of male dogs over the age of 6 have evidence of benign prostatic hypertrophy.

Castration alone is effective and thus is the treatment for benign prostatic hypertrophy. In some patients, infections, cysts, and abscesses can occur in the prostate. In these dogs more extensive surgery may be needed in addition to castration. Prostatic tumors can occur in dogs regardless if they are castrated or not, however, intact males with prostate cancer may still benefit from castration.

CYSTS
If large fluid-filled cysts or abscesses are present, the surgery required depends on their location. Sometimes the cystic structure can be sutured to the skin forming an opening for drainage to the outside. This is called marsupialization.

In some cases, the cystic structures are too small or located too high to reach the body wall. In these patients, drains may be placed from the cyst and exit through the body wall or the omentum (a special membrane like organ in the abdomen) can be sutured into the cyst to absorb the fluid. This is called omentalization.

ABSCESS
Prostatic abscess is a potentially life-threatening problem. Rupture of the abscess releases the bacterial infection into the abdomen, which will result in peritonitis. Dogs with peritonitis require emergency surgery and intensive care.

PROSTATE CANCER
Prostate cancer is a very serious problem in dogs, and can affect both neutered and un-neutered males. All or part of the prostate may need to be removed. This is called prostatectomy or partial prostatectomy. This cancer often spreads early (metastasis), so screening tests including radiographs and ultrasound are required as part of the initial work up and during follow-up progress evaluations. Adjunctive (additional) therapy consisting of radiation therapy and chemotherapy may also be recommended.

The prognosis for long-term survival with prostate cancer in dogs is not very good.

Each of these procedures has their advantages, disadvantages and potential for complications. Your surgeon would be glad to discuss these with you during your consultation.

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