Renal carcinoma in the dog

Thirty-three cases of canine renal carcinoma reported between 1907 and 1972 are reviewed, and clinical and pathological features of nine other cases seen in Bristol between 1966 and 1975 are described. Clinical features frequently include nonspecific signs of anorexia and weight loss. The age range of affected dogs varies from 3 to 15 years, with a mean of 7.1 years. Male dogs appear to be affected more frequently than females, but there is no breed predilection. The clinical behaviour of canine renal carcinoma is variable, with 4 years the longest survival time after nephrectomy. The primary tumours characteristically are large and unilateral and occupy most of one pole of a kidney. Metastatic spread can involve a wide range of organs, the commonest being lymph nodes and lung. Solid, tubular and papillary patterns are common. Clear cell carcinoma is uncommon.