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Radiation therapy for feline cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma using a hypofractionated protocol
Simone C S Cunha1, Luis Alfredo V Carvalho, Paulo Cesar Canary
1Faculdade de Medicina veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense (UFF), Niterói -RJ, Brazil. simonecsc@gmail.com
Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery
|December 26, 2009
Summary
This study found a hypofractionated radiation protocol safe but less effective for feline facial squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). While side effects were manageable, response rates were lower than expected, indicating a need for protocol adjustments to improve cure rates.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Oncology
- Radiation Therapy
- Feline Medicine
Background:
- Feline facial squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common malignancy.
- Established treatment protocols for feline SCC often involve surgery or conventional radiation therapy.
- Hypofractionated radiation therapy offers a potentially more convenient treatment schedule.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a hypofractionated radiation protocol for treating feline facial SCC.
- To assess response rates, survival times, and side effects associated with this protocol.
Main Methods:
- Fifteen cats with 25 histologically confirmed feline facial SCCs were treated.
- A hypofractionated protocol using four fractions of 7.6-10Gy, with 1-week intervals, was administered.
- Electron beam radiation (4 or 6MeV) with 5 or 10mm bolus was delivered using a linear accelerator.
Main Results:
- An overall response rate of 52% was observed (40% complete response, 12% partial response).
- Complete remission was achieved in 62.5% of T1 stage tumors.
- Mean overall survival was 224 days, and mean disease-free time was 271 days.
- Observed side effects included erythema, epilation, ulceration, and conjunctivitis, graded using VRTOG criteria.
Conclusions:
- The hypofractionated radiation protocol was deemed safe for feline facial SCC, with manageable side effects.
- Response rates were lower compared to other protocols, potentially due to technical differences in fractionation and delivery.
- Modifications to the protocol are planned to enhance cure rates in future studies.
