anal glands

My Shitzu has inflammed anal glands. I took her to the vet on Thurs and they put her on an antibiotic and some pain meds. I took her back today and they tried to drain some more but couldn't get much out. The vet said she didn't like the way they felt and said she should see a specialist and that it could be cancer. What exactly does this mean. If she is not treated will she be in pain and how long do you think she has left.
Thanks

[Bernadine Cruz, D.V.M.]

Anal gland problems are not uncommon.  They can range from just being full, to infected.  They may abscess and suddenly rupture through the skin.  The glands can become neoplastic (cancerous).  It is difficult to predict if the tissue is just inflammed and this is causing a firm swelling in the area or is it something more serious.  If medication and antiinflammatory medication has not caused resolution of the signs, a second opinion from a specialist is not inappropriate.  Surgery may be the best way to truely determine the cause of the problem.  If it is cancer, the surgeon can submit tissue samples that will give you a better idea of the prognosis.  Some cancers are more aggressive than others.  It can spread internally, often to local lymph nodes.  Spread can sometimes be determined by performing an ultrasound on the belly.  


Please consider heeding your veterinarian's advice and seek a second opinion.  

I wish you and your pet the best...
Dr. Bernadine