Prostatic Cysts in Dogs

Prostatic cysts in dogs is a disease of the endocrine system that affects the prostate gland of male dogs. The prostate gland is internally located near the opening of the bladder and functions in the production of semen. Cysts (closed sacs of fluid) can develop on or around the prostate causing enlargement of the gland which can lead to difficulty in urination and bowel function. Prostatic cysts are generally rare and benign (non-cancerous).

Since the prostate gland is internal, it can be difficult to tell it has become enlarged. Observing the following symptoms (created by the pressure from the cysts on internal organs) may be an indication cysts have developed:

• Difficulty urinating - because the urethra travels through the prostate gland to empty urine from the bladder, signs from the dog may include a thin stream of urine, straining to produce urine and/or taking a long time to void
• Difficulty defecating - if the prostate is putting pressure on the colon, it can cause trouble for the dog when trying to pass a bowel movement
• Possibility of blood in the urine

Types

There are two main types of prostatic cysts in dogs:

• paraprostatic (around the gland)
• and those formed on the gland

Neither type are cancerous, however, the cysts do need to be removed to ensure the dog’s normal bodily functions are able to perform without interference from the pressure of the abnormal sacs.

The cause of prostatic cysts in dogs is from leftover embryonic tissue that did not develop normally before the dog was born. The cysts generally do not increase in size or start to cause problems until the dog is over a few years of age.

If any of the above symptoms are observed, it is important to bring your dog to the veterinarian for testing. It is likely that you will be asked to bring in a sample of your dog’s urine that has been caught mid-stream. The sample of urine will be cultured to detect any presence of bacteria or abnormal cells. The sample may also be used to look at microscopically for the same purpose. Other methods of detection your veterinarian may use are: examination via palpation of the prostate with their hands (rectally and/or abdominally) to feel for any unusual masses, radiographs of the abdomen via X-ray to visually spot any unusual masses and/or ultrasound imaging of the abdomen to further view the internal properties.

Surgery

The only way to treat prostatic cysts in dogs is to surgically drain and/or remove the cysts. Any surgery poses a risk. However, the cysts cannot be left due to the possibility of bursting and creating infection as well as the general discomfort and disruption they cause to your dog’s voiding ability. Depending on how large the cysts are and where they are positioned, the veterinarian may be able to drain them with a hollow needle via ultrasonic imaging. If that is the case, smaller incisions will be made to remove the drained cysts. Another technique for more difficult to maneuver positioning of the cysts is opening the abdomen entirely and removing the cysts whole without prior draining.

Recovery is expected to be full and without return of problematic tissue growth. Generally, it is encouraged to return for follow-up visits with your veterinarian once a week following surgery to monitor the site internally and externally for any signs of abnormality. This usually only takes a few visits, as once the inside and outside organs and tissues have established healing there is no further cause for concern. As with any surgical procedure, due caution should be taken to keep your dog’s activity as low-key as possible. Equally important is keeping their nutrition up to par to encourage healing and to provide a safe and calm rehabilitative environment.