Sertoli cells are those which act as nurse cells to the developing spermatozoa. The sertoli cells engulf the spermatozoa, are structurally important in the seminiferous tubules and form the blood-testis barrier.
Tumours are usually slow growing although 10-20% show malignant characteristics. Neoplasia is predisposed by inguinal or abdominal testes.
Sertoli cell tumours usually present as a feminising syndrome in the elderly dog. Owners may also notice:
- Asymmetric testes.
- Swelling in one testis.
- Infertility/subfertility in a breeding dog.
Treatment involves castration. Metastasis is rare but can occur, in which case chemotherapy is a possible treatment option.