Diagnostic possibilities in the management of canine prostatic disorders

Abstract

Various prostatic disorders are described in older intact dogs. Progression of disease commences quite often in dogs aged 5.5 years or older. Clinical symptoms are transient in the beginning, and are difficult to recognize. In fact, patient feels very little, if any, discomfort as troubles develop subsequently. As an exception to the rule there is acute inflammation, symptoms of which are severe, sometimes even life threatening. Diagnosis not meticulously established, when procedure is not met properly, (e.g. recognition of prostatitis without identification of infectious agent) this may result in development of chronic disease, which is often hard to manage. Rectal palpation should be part of routine examination in all older dogs, while correct diagnostic protocol should follow. By means of precise diagnostic protocol, we are able to identify the problem early, often in the curable stage of disease; therefore we are able to maintain fertility of the patient, as well. So far, described prostatic disorders are benign hyperplasia (BPH), squamous metaplasia, prostatic inflammation, both acute and chronic, prostatic cysts and abscesses and neoplasia.