Anal Sac Disease

Anal sacs in normal dogs tend to be empty or soft when palpated. The majority of anal sacs contain keratinocytes as well as leukocytes. Over 75% of the leukocytes are degenerate and bacteria are rarely found intracellularly. Dogs diagnosed with anal sac adenocarcinoma are presented for evaluation of a myriad of clinical signs, the most common historical complaints including perianal swelling/rectal mass and tenesmus. Other common signs associated with anal sac neoplasia include anorexia/inappetance, polyuria/polydipsia, lethargy, weight loss, urinary incontinence, constipation, and posterior weakness. Dogs with chronic anal sac disease may also show signs of a more generalized dermatitis. During physical examination of a patient with suspected anal sac disease, a rectal examination and careful palpation of the anal sacs is essential. Comparisons have been made between open and closed techniques for anal sacculectomy for the treatment of anal sacculitis/impaction/abscessation.