Treatment with DAV for advanced-stage hemangiosarcoma in dogs

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Oncology
• Medical Chemistry
• Clinical Trial Design

Background:

• Hemangiosarcoma (HSA) is a prevalent and aggressive cancer in dogs.
• Advanced stages (II and III) of nonresectable HSA present significant treatment challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of a doxorubicin, dacarbazine, and vincristine (DAV) combination chemotherapy protocol.
• To assess treatment outcomes in dogs with nonresectable stage II and III HSA.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, phase 2 clinical trial involving 24 dogs with advanced HSA.
• Administration of doxorubicin and dacarbazine on day 1, and vincristine on days 8 and 15, repeated every 21 days.
• Assessment of toxicity and efficacy through clinical evaluations, laboratory tests, and owner questionnaires.

Main Results:

• A 47.4% overall response rate was observed in 19 evaluable dogs (5 complete, 4 partial responses).
• Median time to tumor progression was 101 days, and median overall survival was 125 days.
• Significant toxicities included high-grade hematologic (41 events) and gastrointestinal (12 events) toxicities; 5 dogs discontinued treatment.

Conclusions:

• The DAV combination chemotherapy demonstrates clinical activity and may improve survival in dogs with advanced HSA.
• Patient age was negatively associated with time to progression, while dacarbazine dose reductions were positively associated with both time to progression and overall survival.