Renal Cystadenocarcinoma and Nodular Dermatofibrosis, RCND

Signs of this disease include thick skin nodules, excessive thirst and urination, uterine tumors (leiomyomas) in females, and kidney tumors (renal cystadenocarcinoma). If the cancer metastasizes to the lungs, affected dogs can have respiratory distress.

First signs usually develop around 5 years of age, with death from the disease likely around 9 years of age.

Genetic and laboratory testing are used to diagnose this condition. Abdominal ultrasound is used to visualize the uterus.

There is no treatment for RCND. Certain medications, fluid therapy, and surgical management may be recommended.

Talk to your vet about your dog’s RCND result so you can work together to plan ongoing care and monitoring.

Schedule regular checkups and imaging as recommended to monitor kidney health and detect any changes early.

Work with your vet to manage any symptoms and focus on keeping your dog comfortable through appropriate supportive care.

Keep your dog comfortable at home with soft bedding, easy access to water, and a calm, low-stress environment.

This mutation was first described in the German Shepherd Dog.

Penetrance: This mutation is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner, meaning that one or two copies of this gene will cause the disorder. There is strong evidence that two copies of the mutation is lethal in utero.

Gene

FLCN

Inheritance type

dominant

Clinical category

Multisystem

Citations

1. Lingaas et al 2003

• Berger Blanc Suisse
• Czechoslovakian Vlcak
• German Shepherd Dog
• King Shepherd
• Saarloos Wolfdog
• Shiloh Shepherd
• White Shepherd