Sertoli-Cell Tumors

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                      General Information



Sertoli-cell tumors generally occur in male dogs over 5 years of

age, but occasionally are found in younger dogs.  Usually the

tumor develops in a testicle that is not descended into the

scrotum.  However, a testicle within the scrotum may be involved

also.  These tumors generally do not spread to other areas of the

body.



Female hormones (estrogens) are produced by about 15% of the

tumors in normal testicles, 50% of the tumors in testicles

located in the groin, and 70% of the tumors in testicles located

in the abdomen.  Female hormones cause the development of female

characteristics, such as enlarged mammary glands, swollen skin

enclosing the penis, localized hair thinning, and reduced penis

size.  Dogs with Sertoli-cell tumors may also be sexually

attractive to other male dogs.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  The only effective treatment is surgical removal of the

    testicles (castration).  Signs disappear within 1-3 months.



2.  The following pertains to dogs whose surgery has been

    completed and are being released to go home:



    * Diet:  Ordinarily no special diet is required.



    * Activity:  Only moderate on-leash exercise is allowed

    until the sutures (stitches) are removed.  Then normal

    activity may be resumed.



    * Environment:  Keep your dog in the house and frequently

    change the bedding until the stitches are removed.



    Your dog will be evaluated for suture removal in ____ days.



       Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your dog chews out the stitches or opens the incision.



    * The incision becomes red, hot or swollen, or oozes fluid or

    pus.



    * Your dog experiences painful urination, or there is blood

    in the urine.



    * Your dog's general health changes.