Significant advances in veterinary oncology - 60 years on

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Oncology
• Comparative Pathology

Background:

• The Journal of Small Animal Practice (JSAP) published its first edition in February 1960, featuring a paper on malignant neoplasia treatments.
• This 60th anniversary provides an opportunity to review the evolution of veterinary oncology since that initial publication.
• Veterinary oncology has transformed into a multidisciplinary specialty with global networks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a historical perspective on the advancements in veterinary oncology over the past 60 years.
• To highlight progress in understanding cancer pathology and epidemiology in animals.
• To review developments in the diagnosis and treatment of animal cancers.

Main Methods:

• Historical review of veterinary oncology literature and practice.
• Comparative analysis of early and current approaches to animal cancer management.
• Identification of knowledge gaps and limitations in the evidence base.

Main Results:

• Significant progress has been made in understanding animal cancer pathology and epidemiology.
• Diagnostic and therapeutic modalities for animal cancers have substantially improved.
• The field has become highly specialized, supported by international collaborations.

Conclusions:

• Veterinary oncology has seen remarkable advancements, enhancing animal cancer care.
• Despite progress, substantial knowledge gaps remain in the field.
• The evidence base for current standard-of-care treatments is often weak, necessitating further research, particularly randomized clinical trials.