Prostatic cyst and concurrent Sertoli cell tumor in a dog

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Canine Endocrinology
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Sertoli cell tumors are a common testicular neoplasm in intact male dogs.
• Hyperestrogenism secondary to Sertoli cell tumors can manifest with various clinical signs, including feminization and dermatologic changes.
• Prostatic cysts have been anecdotally linked to tumor-induced hyperestrogenism in dogs, but documented cases are scarce.

Observation:

• A canine patient presented with an abdominal Sertoli cell tumor, hyperestrogenism signs (feminization, dermatologic alterations, anemia), and concurrent large prostatic cysts.
• The dog underwent marsupialization of the prostatic cysts and orchiectomy (testicular removal).

Findings:

• Post-surgical resolution of clinical signs associated with hyperestrogenism was observed.
• No evidence of tumor metastasis was detected one year after surgery.
• This case supports the hypothesis that Sertoli cell tumors can induce prostatic cyst formation in dogs.

Implications:

• This report highlights the importance of considering prostatic cysts in dogs with Sertoli cell tumors and signs of hyperestrogenism.
• Surgical management, including cyst marsupialization and tumor removal, can be effective in resolving these conditions.
• Further investigation into the mechanisms linking canine Sertoli cell tumors, hyperestrogenism, and prostatic pathology is warranted.