Combination CCNU and vinblastine chemotherapy for canine mast cell tumours: 57 cases

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of a CCNU and vinblastine chemotherapy protocol for canine mast cell tumours. Fifty-seven tumours in 56 dogs were evaluated, 37 had macroscopic disease and 20 had microscopic disease. A 57% response rate was seen in dogs with macroscopic disease for a median duration of 52 weeks. Dogs with macroscopic disease had a median progression free survival time (PFST) of 30 weeks and a median overall survival time (OST) of 35 weeks. Dogs with microscopic disease had a median PFST of 35 weeks and a median OST of 48 weeks. Toxicity was recorded in 54% of the dogs treated, with the majority of events being mild. This chemotherapy protocol appears to be well tolerated and should be considered for canine mast cell tumours.