Review on Canine Transmissible Venereal Tumor (CTVT)

Tumor is an excessive and uncoordinated proliferation of cells with no useful function. It is a common cause of death in dog. Canine transmissible venereal tumor (CTVT) is a tumor of the dogs and other canines that mainly affect the external genitalia and is transmitted from animal to animal through sexual contacts but may also be passed on as the dog bites, sniffs or licks the tumor affected areas. It is the only known naturally occurring tumor that can be transplanted as an allograft across major histocompatibility (MHC) barriers within the same species, and even to other members of the canine family, such as foxes, coyotes and wolves. The tumor is usually seen in young, sexually active dogs from an environment with high concentration of free-roaming dogs with uncontrolled reproduction. The progression of this tumor is unique in that, it follows a predictable growth pattern. Clinical signs of this disease include friable nodule in the genitalia, accompanied by hemorrhagic discharge. Definitive diagnosis is reached by cytological and histopathological findings. It is many times, self-limiting. As a form of treatment chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy and immunotherapy may be used. Cancer chemotherapy is the best option.