Managing canine apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma

Canine apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma represents a common challenge for veterinary practitioners. This is often partly because the majority of animals diagnosed with apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma show no systemic signs at the time of presentation. Moreover, rectal examinations are not frequently performed during routine physical examinations, making it difficult to diagnose a mass at an early stage. An understanding of the disease process, common metastatic sites, diagnostic modalities and multimodal treatment approaches will help practitioners achieve better clinical outcomes for animals diagnosed with apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma. Furthermore, knowledge of prognostic indicators will help practitioners to set realistic expectations with their clients and improve clinician–client communication. This article focuses on the predisposition, staging, multimodal treatment therapies and outcomes of dogs presenting with apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma.