[Testicular tumors in dogs: a literature review]

The incidence of testicular tumours in dogs is higher than in other species. The main three types are: Sertoli cell tumour, seminoma, and Leydig cell tumour. Metastases are rare. Sertoli cell tumours, and to a lesser extent Leydig cell tumours, are often associated with feminization, which occurs in 19% and 5% of cases, respectively. Seminomas are rarely associated with feminization. Feminization seems to be the result of an excessive oestrogen production by the tumour. In severe cases this may lead to bone marrow depression. Atrophy of the contralateral testis is a common finding. It is not clear whether this is a result of feminization or of age because most tumours occur in older dogs. By investigating the morphology of the testis, and the endocrinological and fertility status of the dog this phenomena is hopefully going to be explained. Extra attention is given to the pathogenesis of feminization.