Transitional cell carcinoma and subsequent rupture of the canine bladder: a case report and review of the literature.

A transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder is reported in a ten year old male Bull Mastiff. The presenting signs were a tender, enlarged abdomen, depression and weakness. Diagnostic tests suggested a ruptured bladder. The tumor was diagnosed by exploratory laparotomy and the dog was subsequently euthanized due to the poor prognosis. A review of bladder tumors with emphasis on transitional cell carcinomas is also presented.