posted by Tess on Aug 3
Canine prostate cancer is different in some respects and similar in others when compared with prostate cancer in humans. Unlike prostate cancer in humans, which is a slow progressing condition, canine prostate cancer is a highly aggressive and invasive disease. In many cases the life expectancy is barely thirty days after diagnosis.
On the other hand, it produces symptoms that are similar to prostate cancer in humans and is detected just as late. Although, the basis of the disease is the same as in humans, treatment modalities are largely different and restricted in the case of canine prostate cancer.
Cancer cells in dogs that have prostate cancer metastasize (spread) to other parts of the body like bones, lungs and lymph nodes at a fast speed. An abnormal gait is common in dogs with prostate cancer due to the affect that it has on bones.
The prostate gland encircles the urethra and its enlargement causes difficulty in urination (dysuria). Some dogs may also show symptoms such as a difficulty in passing stools or an inclination to defecate without significant production of feces due to spasms in the anal sphincter.
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