Carcinomas
Cancers of epithelial (lining) tissue — includes squamous cell, transitional cell, and adenocarcinoma.
What is Carcinomas?
Carcinomas arise from epithelial cells that line body surfaces and glands. Common examples include mammary carcinoma, anal sac adenocarcinoma, thyroid carcinoma, transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder, and squamous cell carcinoma of the skin or mouth. Behaviour varies widely by primary site.
Common signs and symptoms
Signs vary between dogs and can be subtle at first. Watch for the following, especially if several appear together or persist for more than a few days:
- Non-healing sore or ulcer
- Firm mass in a gland (mammary, anal sac, thyroid)
- Blood in urine, stool, or saliva
- Elevated blood calcium (paraneoplastic sign of anal sac adenocarcinoma)
Risk factors
Certain dogs are more predisposed. Understanding risk helps you screen earlier and act sooner.
- Senior dogs
- Breed predispositions vary by type (see specific cancer pages)
- Sun exposure (SCC of skin)
When to see a vet
Use this as general triage guidance, not a substitute for veterinary advice.
- Book a routine appointment if: any persistent sore, firm gland enlargement, or unexplained calcium elevation on bloodwork.
- Seek urgent care if: difficulty urinating or defecating, or heavy bleeding.
Diagnosis and management
Surgical excision is the mainstay when possible, with radiation and/or chemotherapy added based on tumour type and stage. Many carcinomas respond well to targeted therapies.