Transmissible venereal tumor, or TVT, is a type of tumor occurring in dogs that can be transmitted by touch. These tumors are most often found on the genitals, in both male and female dogs, though they can also occur on the anal area, mouth, nose and other areas. They may externally appear as a fleshy growth, though often times the only visible sign of TVT is genital bleeding.
TVT is transmitted by physical contact with the tumor, most commonly through matting but also through routine sniffing and other contact. In most cases, the tumor is malignant and grows and bleeds until the dog's immune system rejects it. In immune-suppressed patients, however, the tumor may become cancerous. Diagnosis is typically done through biopsy or cytology, and treatment can involve surgery, radiation, or vincristine. |
