Renal Cystadenocarcinoma and Nodular Dermatofibrosis in Dogs

Category: Cancer
Inheritance: Autosomal dominant
Breeds documented: 1
Published sources: 5

Overview

In German Shepherds, this inherited syndrome links firm skin lumps with cancerous growths in the kidneys. The skin changes are called nodular dermatofibrosis, and the kidney cancer is called renal cystadenocarcinoma. Tumors usually form in several places within both kidneys. The condition develops later in life and worsens over time, although the kidney tumors vary in how quickly they develop and grow.

Signs to watch for

Several firm lumps in the skin
Sores or changes in foot shape
Limping when growths affect the feet

Skin lumps usually develop during adulthood.

When to get help Book a vet visit if firm skin lumps appear, especially with foot sores or limping.

Diagnosis and tests

Taking a tissue sample from a skin lump is called a biopsy. Examining that sample under a microscope can help confirm nodular dermatofibrosis. A vet can also use an ultrasound scan of the belly to look for related changes in the kidneys and the womb in female dogs.

Breeds with documented risk

1 breed

By breed size

1 Large

German ShepherdLarge · Herding Group

Inheritance

Autosomal dominant
One copy of the variant, from either parent, is enough to put a dog at risk. On average, an affected dog passes the variant to half of its puppies. Males and females are affected equally.
As stated by OMIA

We've gathered what published sources say about this condition, so you can talk it through with your vet. It isn't veterinary advice: you and your vet know your dog best.