Oncology - Clinical Trials

• Medical, Radiation, & Surgical Oncology
• Brain Tumors
• UC Davis Veterinary Center for Clinical Trials

Medical, Radiation, & Surgical Oncology

Thank you for allowing us the opportunity to play a part in your pet's health care. As a university teaching hospital, it is our goal to learn more about the debilitating cancers that our beloved pets experience. Through collaborations within and beyond UC Davis, we are conducting various cancer-related studies at the cutting edge of cancer research. When your pet participates in one of our studies, you allow us the opportunity to increase our understanding of this debilitating disease that plagues loved ones, both humans and animals.

• Anal Sac Tumors
• Lung Tumors
• Lymphoma
• Nasal Tumors
• Urinary Tract Tumors
• Other Tumors
  • Cancers of the bone, kidney, head/neck and adrenal glands
  • Osteosarcoma
  • Gastrointestinal (Colon & Rectum) cancer
  • Histiocytic Sarcoma
• Tumor Collection Only Studies
  • Oral Malignant Melanoma
  • Primary Lung Tumors
  • Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Anal Sac Tumors

Title: Assessment of the iliosacral lymphatic center in dogs with anal sac gland carcinoma using indirect computed tomographic lymphography

Purpose: Anal sac gland cancer cancer, is a locally aggressive cancer that has high rates of metastasis or spread through the regional lymph nodes. The use of surgery, chemotherapy and possible radiation therapy is recommended for patients with confirmed metastatic disease. Even when metastatic disease is present, reasonable survival rates have been achieved with aggressive treatment. The current gold standard for evaluation of lymph node metastasis in this disease is abdominal ultrasound of lymph nodes in the abdomen, however this technique misses lymph nodes in the pelvis that are actually closer to the primary tumor. We will evaluate the effectiveness of CT to evaluate the entire draining lymph node center in dogs with this cancer.

Participation Requirements: Dogs with an anal sac tumor that has not been surgically removed.

Initial Evaluation for Participation: Dogs must be evaluated by the UCDavis VMTH Soft Tissue Surgery or Medical Oncology Services and have an abdominal ultrasound performed by the UCDavis VMTH Radiology Service as part of normal pre-operative assessment for their dog’s disease.

Benefits: The results of the CT evaluation will help determine the extent of additional disease (if present) in your pet. The CT will provide information that may improve our ability to make surgical recommendations for your dog. If disease is present in other lymph nodes that is not surgically removable for whatever reason, these procedures will still benefit your pet, as we will be able to make better post-surgical treatment recommendations, such as possible need for chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. Costs associated with the CT scans, including the imaging and contrast material, will be covered by the study.

Owner Responsibilities: The owner is responsible for standard costs of their dog’s care (surgical removal of the primary tumor removal and any lymph nodes if so desired by the client), other pre-operative diagnostics deemed medically necessary, histopathologic analysis, hospitalization, and management of any standard surgical complications that may occur.

Contact Information: Call (530) 752-1393 to talk to the Specialty Coordinators in Soft Tissue Surgery or Oncology.

Lung Tumors

Title: Assessment of intraoperative lymphography as an aid to identification of regional lymph nodes in patients with primary lung tumors

Purpose: Whether or not there is metastatic tumor in the regional lymph nodes is very important prognostic information for dogs with lung tumors, as dogs that do not have metastatic disease in their lymph nodes in general have a much longer lifespan. The aim of this study is to provide information that will allow us to better identify these lymph nodes at surgery to improve the safety of surgical dissection and minimize surgical time during removal of these lymph nodes.

Participation Requirements: All dogs must be examined by a VMTH oncology, radiation oncology service or soft tissue surgery veterinarian, and require the following baseline evaluations at the owners expense before a dog can be considered for enrollment in the trial:

• A diagnosis of a solitary lung tumor
• Your decision to have a CT performed for staging and surgical planning of your dog’s disease
• Your decision to pursue surgical removal of your dog’s lung tumor

Initial Evaluation for Participation: None.

Procedures: During surgery, surgical dyes will be injected into the lung around your dog’s tumor and uptake by the regional lymph nodes will be assessed. 

Benefits: If your dog’s lung tumor is deemed safe to inject and you elect to take your dog to surgery, the study will retroactively pay for the CT scan ($800 value to the client). This benefits you as a thoracic CT is an important part of staging and surgical planning for any patient with a primary lung tumor. However if your dog’s tumor is not in a location that is safe to inject based on the initial plain CT scan, OR if you decide not to take your dog to surgery based on the initial plain CT scan (for example, because metastatic disease is found) then your dog cannot participate in the study and you must be prepared to pay for the CT.

Owner Responsibilities: There is no additional cost to you for your dog’s participation in the study. In return for your dog’s participation, the study will retroactively pay for the cost of your dog’s CT scan (and $800 value to you). The study will not pay for the CT scan if you do not elect to have your dog’s lung tumor surgically removed.

Contact Information: Call (530) 752-1393 to talk to the Specialty Coordinators in Soft Tissue Surgery or Oncology.

Lymphoma 

Patient Disease: B-cell Lymphoma

Title: The Effect of IV Infusion of Doxorubicin on the Incidence of Cardiac Arrhythmias and Cardiac Troponin I Levels in Dogs

Purpose of the Study: Doxorubicin is currently the mainstay of treatment for dogs with B-Cell lymphoma. This drug is known to be toxic to cardiac muscle cells; however, this toxicity is unavoidable as the drug is so critically important in treatment of the disease. Currently, the only method for monitoring this toxic effect is echocardiography, which is expensive and only able to identify toxic changes once they become severe. The aim of this study is to determine whether monitoring of arrhythmia or blood markers of cardiac cell death can provide an early warning system for detecting the toxic effects of the drug.

Participation Requirements: Canine patients that are newly diagnosed with Lymphoma. Your pet must weigh more than 8.0kg and be at least one year of age.

Dogs are NOT eligible if they have/are:

• Pre-existing cardiomegaly
• Previous history of arrhythmia
• Previous history of thoracic radiation therapy
• Currently receiving anti-arrhythmia therapy

Procedures: Once your dog has been diagnosed with lymphoma and is undergoing treatment with chemotherapy including doxorubicin, the dog will undergo heart ultrasound (echocardiography), heart rhythm monitoring with a Holter monitor, and blood sampling before treatment with doxorubicin and at each doxorubicin treatment. Approximately 1-2 tbsp of blood will be taken at your pet’s appointment after doxorubicin treatment for the Troponin test. This testing will occur around the same time as each dose of doxorubicin. Heart rhythm monitoring will be collected for 24 hours after some visits (ie. your dog will go home wearing the monitor) and for only 1 hour in the hospital at other visits. Holter monitoring provides a continuous recording of the heart rhythm during your pet’s normal activity. The monitor is worn for 24 hours. Five electrodes (small conducting patches) are placed on the chest. We need to shave the skin to connect each corresponding electrode. Once attached to the cables, electrodes will be taped onto the chest and attached to a small battery-operated recording monitor. Your pet will be fitted with a vest and the monitor carried in the pocket.

Benefits: Your dog will receive free screening for a heart condition at the beginning of the study at no cost to you and you will be informed of any abnormal findings. These results may be used to adjust the chemotherapy plan and/or recommend future monitoring of your dog. The findings of this study, if validated, may used to help improve the safety and monitoring during treatment for future patients receiving doxorubicin.

Owners Responsibilities: The owner will be responsible for scheduling appointments with the study coordinator and keeping those appointments as required by protocol. There is no cost to the owner if you choose to participate in this study; however, the owner is responsible for paying for all costs associated with the diagnosis and treatment of B-cell lymphoma ($5000-6000). Assessment and monitoring costs of the echocardiograph, arrhythmia (via Holter) and any cardiac cellular damage as will be paid for by the study (~$1200). The owner will also be responsible for repair or replacement of the monitor or cables if damaged by water or sharp objects, respectively.

Contact Information: Teri Guererro (530-752-0125 or tguererro@ucdavis.edu) or contact the Specialty Coordinators in Cardiology (530-752-2393)

Patient Disease: T-cell Lymphoma

Title: Bioavailability and Safety of a Canine Lymphoma Monoclonal Antibody Administered Intravenously to Dogs with T-cell Lymphoma

Purpose: Lymphoma is one of the most common blood cancers affecting dogs of different type of breeds and ages with no known cure. Current treatments involve the use of extensive chemotherapy and/or associated radiotherapy, all of which may have side effects that could negatively impact your pet’s quality of life. The antibody being used in this study is designed specifically for dogs and was shown to be safe and effective at depleting lymphoma cells in laboratory studies. Antibodies are non-chemotherapeutic agents that were first used for treating lymphoma in humans. Antibodies extended survival time and improved quality of life while significantly reducing toxicity.

Participation Requirements: Adult dogs diagnosed with confirmed T-cell lymphoma or peripheral lymphadenopathy that:

• Are naïve to treatment
• Have failed conventional treatment (recurrent after or refractory to chemotherapy)
• Have a life expectancy of at least 6 weeks
• Have owners who have elected not to do conventional treatment (surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy)

Procedures:

• Upon entry into the trial: The dog will undergo a physical exam and 2 lymph nodes will be measured.
• First visit: Blood (1 tsp) will be drawn to measure the amount of the antibody in the blood and analyze lymphocyte population distribution. Aspirates of one lymph node will be obtained (for staining for absence or presence of the antibody). A catheter will be placed in a peripheral vein and the antibody will be administered by infusion over 10 minutes. The dog will be closely observed for 45 minutes to make sure that there are no allergic reactions. If there is an allergic reaction, dexamethasone (0.2mg/kg IV) and diphenydramine (2 mg/kg SQ) will be administered. Additional blood (1 tsp) will be drawn at 1, 4, 8, 24 and 48 hours (this visit corresponds with the second visit) after infusion.
• Second visit: Blood (1 tsp) and lymph node aspirates will be obtained and target lymph nodes will be measured. Another dose of the antibody will be administered and the dog monitored as above. You can take your pet home after this visit.
• Second, third, and fourth week: Your pet must come in twice weekly for infusions, measurement of lymph node size, blood draws (1 tsp each time), lymph node aspirates, and a physical exam.
• At the completion of the first month of twice weekly therapy: IF there is response or stable disease AND the dog is feeling well, infusions can continue (once every 2-4 weeks, depending on the level of the antibody in the blood) for an additional 4 treatments.
• At the completion of 4 treatments or 4 months of therapy (which ever comes first), you can elect to do nothing more or discuss starting prednisone, standard of care (if naïve), additional chemotherapy or comfort care (if refractory).

Benefits: While the exact benefits of this antibody are not entirely known, it may benefit your dog by shrinking his/her cancer, and/or by keeping your pet cancer-free for a longer period of time. 

Owner Responsibilities: There is no cost for the antibody, but you will be responsible for the cost of the initial physical examination, initial blood work (prior to enrollment), management of possible side effects, and necessary staging tests.

Contact Information: Teri Guererro (530-752-0125 or tguererro@ucdavis.edu)

Nasal Tumors

Title: Transarterial Chemoembolization of Nasal Tumors

Purpose: The objective of this study is to evaluate alternative treatment options for patients with nasal tumors. Radiation therapy is still considered the gold standard of treatment for this disease, however clients who do not wish to pursue radiation therapy, or whose dog has failed radiation therapy may be eligible for participation in this study.

Participation Requirements:

• Inclusion Criteria:
  • Confirmed diagnosis via cytology or histopathology (biopsy).  Only dogs with tumors INSIDE the nose are eligible. This may have been done by another veterinarian, but results need to be made available to Dr. Steffey.
  • CT scan performed by the UCDAVIS Radiology Department within 3 weeks of enrollment.  If you are coming to UCDavis for workup of your dog’s nasal mass, nasal discharge, or nasal bleeding, PLEASE contact Dr. Steffey or discuss your interest in this study with your attending clinician BEFORE your CT scan is scheduled.  If the correct pre-treatment CT parameters are not used, your dog cannot participate in the study.
  • Complete blood count (CBC), chemistry panel and urinalysis all within two weeks of enrollment (referring blood work is acceptable as long as it was performed at a commercial lab)
  • Clients *must* be willing to return at 1 month, 4 months, and 8 months for study rechecks, including a CT scan under brief general anesthesia.  There is no charge for these rechecks, but it is imperative that the patient return for re-evaluation.
• Exclusion Criteria
  • Dogs that have disease that invades the cribriform plate or is otherwise too extensive to treat safely with chemoembolization are not eligible for this study. 
  • Dogs that have pre-existing kidney disease that would exclude the use of radiographic contrast agents are not eligible.

Procedures

1. Chemoembolization procedure is a minimally invasive procedure. Chemotherapy and an embolic agent to obstruct the tumor blood supply are delivered directly to the tumor blood supply via special catheters.
2. Recheck CT scans at 1 month, 4 months, and 8 months under general anesthesia.

Benefits: THIS IS A PARTIALLY FUNDED STUDY.  The procedure costs of this experimental procedure are covered by the study (an approximately $1500-2000 value to the client), but the individualized costs of the patient's care at the time of the treatment (anesthesia, hospitalization, medications, other individualized diagnostic tests needed to ensure the patient is safe for the procedure, etc) are the responsibility of the client. There will be no charge for the study rechecks at 1 month, 4 months, and 8 months.  You will be financially responsible for the charges associated with the clinical care of your dog beyond the stipends provided. 

Owner Responsibilities: The owner will be responsible for scheduling recheck appointments at 1 month, 4 months, and 8 months post-treatment and keeping those appointments as required by protocol. Owners also have the responsibility to cover the cost of the initial examination, blood work, pre-treatment CT scan, and any additional diagnostic tests and medications prescribed.  The cost of treatment of any complications experienced as a result of this procedure are the responsibility of the owner.

Contact Information: Call (530) 752-1393 to talk to the Specialty Coordinators in Soft Tissue Surgery or Oncology.

Title: Transnare Cryoablation of Nasal Tumors 

Purpose: The objective of this study is evaluate alternative treatment options for patients with nasal tumors. Radiation therapy is still considered the gold standard of treatment for this disease, however clients who do not wish to pursue radiation therapy may be eligible for participation in this study.

Participation Requirements: 

• Inclusion Criteria:
  • Confirmed diagnosis via cytology or histopathology (biopsy).  Only dogs with tumors INSIDE the nose are eligible.  This may have been done by another veterinarian, but results need to be made available to Dr. Steffey
  • CT scan within 3 weeks of enrollment/treatment.  It is highly preferred that the CT scan be performed at UCDavis, to ensure that all variables are evaluated and so that the safest treatment plan can be made.   If you are coming to UCDavis for workup of your dog’s nasal mass, nasal discharge, or nasal bleeding, PLEASE contact Dr. Steffey or discuss your interest in this study with your attending clinician BEFORE your CT scan is scheduled.  If a CT has already been done, it must be evaluated by Dr. Steffey to determine if your pet is appropriate for inclusion.
  • Complete blood count (CBC), chemistry panel and urinalysis all within two weeks of enrollment (referring blood work is acceptable as long as it was performed at a commercial lab)
  • Clients *must* be willing to return at 1 month, 4 months, and 8 months for study rechecks, including a CT scan under brief general anesthesia.  There is no charge for these rechecks, but it is imperative that the patient return for re-evaluation.
• Exclusion Criteria
  • Dogs that have disease that invades the cribriform plate or is otherwise too extensive to treat safely with chemoembolization are not eligible for this study. 

Initial Evaluation for Participation: All dogs must be examined by a VMTH oncology, internal medicine, radiation oncology service or soft tissue surgery veterinarian, and require the baseline evaluations described above at the owners expense before a dog can be considered for enrollment in the trial.

Procedures: Cryoablation procedure is a minimally invasive procedure performed under general anesthesia. Special cryoablation needles are inserted through the nostrils, and freezing sufficient to kill the tumor is applied.

Benefits: THIS IS A PARTIALLY FUNDED STUDY. Dog owners participating in this study will be given special financial considerations. The cost of cryoablation procedure (excluding the costs of general anesthesia) will be covered by the study (an approximately $4000 benefit to the client).  There will be no charge for the study rechecks at 1 month, 4 months, and 8 months. You will be financially responsible for the charges associated with the clinical care of your dog beyond the stipends provided.

Owner Responsibilities: The owner will be responsible for the individualized costs of the patient's care at the time of the treatment (anesthesia, hospitalization, medications, other individualized diagnostic tests needed to ensure the patient is safe for the procedure, etc – approximate total cost for treatment visit $800-1000), and for scheduling recheck appointments post-treatment and keeping those appointments as required by protocol. Owners also have the responsibility to cover the cost of the initial examination, pre-treatment workup, pre-treatment CT scan, and any additional diagnostic tests needed to determine their dog’s eligibility for the study, and medications prescribed.  The cost of treatment of any complications experienced as a result of this procedure are the responsibility of the owner.

Contact Information: Call (530) 752-1393 to talk to the Specialty Coordinators in Soft Tissue Surgery or Oncology.

Title: Nasal Tumors: Comparison of CT and MRI Findings in the Characterization of Canine Sinonasal Neoplasia and Assessment of Outcome with Vascular-Based Therapies (Embolization/Chemoembolization)

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to prospectively evaluate dogs diagnosed with nasal tumors, including documentation of signalment, histologic diagnosis, treatment, and the results of a CT scan as compared to an MRI scan. We will also assess response to vascular-based therapies, such as embolization and chemoembolization.

Participation Requirements: Dogs with diagnosed nasal tumors

Initial Evaluation for Participation: Contact Dr. Culp for details at wculp@ucdavis.edu or (530) 752-1393.

Procedures: If a CT scan is recommended to further characterize the dog’s suspected nasal tumor, an MRI scan will be performed immediately following the CT scan. The MRI scan will be performed under the same general anesthetic event as the CT scan. Additionally, options concerning vascular-based therapies (embolization and chemoembolization) will be discussed and offered.

Benefits: The MRI scan and the anesthesia associated with the MRI scan will be paid for by the study. The MRI scan will offer another imaging modality that your clinician can use to make therapeutic recommendations. 

Owner Responsibilities: The owner will be responsible for scheduling appointments (initial and 2-month follow-up) and keeping those appointments as required by protocol. Financial assistance for some treatments will also be discussed upon consent.

Contact Information: Contact Dr. Culp for details at wculp@ucdavis.edu or (530) 752-1393.

Urinary Tract Tumors

Patient Disease: Tumors obstructing the bladder, urethra and prostate

Title: Prospective Evaluation of Urodynamic Testing in Dogs Undergoing Urethral Stent Placement to Relieve Malignant Urethral Obstruction

Purpose: The purpose of this project is to determine the urethral and bladder pressures of dogs with cancer-induced urethral obstructions and in dogs with urethral stents.

Participation Requirements: Dogs with tumors causing obstruction of the urethra (bladder, urethra and prostate)

Initial Evaluation for Participation: Contact Dr. Culp for details at wculp@ucdavis.edu or (530) 752-1393.

Procedures: Urodynamic studies will be performed at the time of stent placement. Following the urodynamic studies, a urethral stent will be placed. At 3 weeks post-stent placement, canine continence scores will be obtained from clients regarding the dog’s voiding habits and urodynamic studies will be performed again.

Benefits: The goal of placing the stent is to improve the dog’s quality of life. All anesthetic episodes (2) will be paid for by the study. Additionally, all charges associated with the bladder and urethral pressure assessment will be paid for by the study. There are two major study benefits:

1. We will be able to inform clients of the pressures in their dog’s bladder and urethra and discuss the possible implications of this; and,
2. Financial compensation.

Owner Responsibilities: The owner will be responsible for scheduling appointments (initial and 3 weeks after stent placement) and keeping those appointments as required by protocol. Additionally, the owner will need to fill out forms related to their dog’s continence status.

Contact Information: Contact Dr. Culp for details at wculp@ucdavis.edu or (530) 752-1393.

Patient Disease: Prostate Cancer

Title: Evaluation of the Use of Embolization in the Treatment of Prostatic Neoplasia

Purpose: The purpose of this project is to describe the procedure of prostatic artery embolization in a group of dogs with naturally-occurring prostate cancer. A secondary objective is to evaluate the effect that prostatic artery embolization has on clinical signs and the size of the tumor.

Participation Requirements: Dogs with prostate cancer

Initial Evaluation for Participation: Contact Dr. Culp for details at wculp@ucdavis.edu or (530) 752-1393.

Procedures: Dogs will undergo prostatic artery embolization. Pre-procedural ultrasound imaging and computed tomographic findings will be compared to post-procedural ultrasound imaging and computed tomographic findings. Complications associated with the procedure will be recorded and owners will receive a questionnaire to assess the clinical signs of the dog both pre- and post-procedure.

Benefits: The benefits of enrolling in this study include financial support for both pre- and post-procedure diagnostics. Additionally, funding from this grant will be applied towards the procedure. We hope that the data acquired in this study will allow us to advance the treatment of cancer in both pets and people.

Owner Responsibilities: The owner will be responsible for scheduling appointments (initial and 1 month follow-up) and keeping those appointments as required by protocol. 

Contact Information: Contact Dr. Culp for details at wculp@ucdavis.edu or (530) 752-1393.

Patient Disease: Cancers of the bone, kidney, head/neck and adrenal glands

Title: Tumor Cryoablation at the UC Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital

Purpose: The diagnostic and treatment options available in veterinary medicine are advancing rapidly, and we now have the opportunity to perform many of the high-level techniques that are commonly performed in human medicine.  A procedure that has gained acceptance in human medicine but is currently developing in veterinary medicine is cryoablation. Cryoablation involves killing cancerous tissue by freezing. In humans it is used most commonly for the treatment of prostatic cancer and kidney cancer, although it has also been used for the treatment of bone cancer, liver cancer, lung cancer, and other soft tissue cancers.

Unlike peripheral cryoablation, which usually involves applying liquid nitrogen to a skin lesion, when performing percutaneous cryoablation large needles are placed into the affected tissue to administer the freeze – this is done either under direct visualization (surgery) or through tiny skin incisions but under the guidance of an imaging device (most commonly CT or ultrasound), allowing treatment of deep internal lesions. This procedure has been rarely reported in veterinary medicine but is offered by the UC Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital.

Participation Requirements: To be discussed on a case-by-case basis with Dr. Steffey.

Initial Evaluation for Participation: To be discussed on a case-by-case basis with Dr. Steffey.

Procedures: At a minimum, a small incision or incisions may be required under general anesthesia.  Depending on the tumor location, open surgery or minimally invasive surgery for visualization/retraction of other organs may be needed.  The treated tissue will die and be “cleaned up” by the body’s immune system.  If discomfort following the surgery occurs, pain management will be provided. Your pet will need to be monitored closely post-cryoablation.

Benefits: If the procedure is unable to be performed, the costs of anesthesia and equipment will still need to be considered.

Owner Responsibilities: None.

Contact Information: Call (530) 752-1393 to talk to the Specialty Coordinators in Soft Tissue Surgery or Oncology.

Patient Disease: Osteosarcoma (bone cancer)

Title: Thiomolybdate as a Suppressor of Canine Osteosarcoma Metastasis

Purpose: The purpose of this clinical trial is to evaluate the possibility of using a copper-inhibiting drug (tetrathiomolybdate, TM) to limit the spread of bone cancer (osteosarcoma) to other areas of the body. This medication may ultimately lead to improved treatment outcomes for both dog and human cancer patients.

Participation Requirements: Dogs following amputation of the primary bone tumor

Initial Evaluation for Participation: None.

Procedures: 

• Dogs will receive a standard-of-care treatment (IV doxorubicin chemotherapy every 2 weeks for 5 treatments) concurrently with either the test compound or a placebo pill. Dogs will be randomized to receive the test compound or placebo in a 1:1 ratio (equal chances of being assigned to either group). The oral treatments will be given 3 times daily, with the morning and evening doses given without food while the mid-day dose will be given with a meal. A blood sample of approximately 1-2 tablespoons will be taken from your dog on a weekly basis for 2-6 weeks and analyzed for levels of copper and a copper-carrying compound. A complete blood count and serum chemistry panel will also be performed to monitor for any potential side effects. Based on the copper levels, we will adjust the drug dose to minimize any side effects, which include anemia and (very rarely) nausea in the early phases of treatment.
  • Nausea is managed by the addition of an anti-vomiting medicine if needed.
  • Anemia is managed by discontinuing the compound until the blood count returns to normal, and then resuming treatment with a lower dose of the compound.
• After the initial 2-6 week period, your dog will be monitored by monthly physical examinations and blood tests, supplemented by chest X-rays every 3 months to check for tumors in the lung (the most common site of metastasis). Monitoring will continue until metastasis is detected or for 1 year from the start of study. At the end of the study, dogs will have an abdominal ultrasound.
• Dogs that benefit from the drug (i.e., no evidence of metastasis at 1 year or lung tumors that shrink or are stable) may continue to take the compound after the end of the study for up to 6 additional months. Dogs with cancer that spreads that were assigned to the placebo group can be transferred to the test drug at that time. Such dogs may continue to be monitored for evidence of stabilization or shrinkage of tumors for at least 6 months, unless further tumor growth is detected.

Benefits: While the exact benefits are not entirely known, these procedures may help treat your dog's cancer.

Owner Responsibilities: Partial costs associated with this study will be compensated as part of your participation. The study drug (or placebo), monthly radiographs (including appointment recheck fees), and any necessary additional blood tests are all covered by the study. You will be responsible for all other costs including routine chemotherapy costs, routine blood tests, and any costs associated with treatment of adverse effects. Doxorubicin treatments usually cost somewhere between $300-400 per treatment (depending on the size of your dog and whether blood tests are necessary). Therefore, the cost to you for participating in this study is expected to be approximately $1500-$2000 in the absence of side effects.

Contact Information: Teri Guererro (530-752-0125 or tguererro@ucdavis.edu).

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Patient Disease: Gastrointestinal (Colon & Rectum) cancer

Title: Evaluation of CT pneumocolonography as a diagnostic tool in veterinary patients

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of imaging findings on surgical decision-making in dogs with colonic and rectal disease of any kind (cancer or non-cancer). This part of the body can be a very difficult region examine with current imaging methods, which also do not provide optimal spatial information important if a surgical procedure is needed.  In early studies, we have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of the CT pneumocolonography procedure in normal dogs, but it is important that we learn to accurately interpret the imaging findings for a wide variety of disease processes in clinical patients so that our CT diagnoses are accurate. Our goal is to compare the imaging findings obtained with CT pneumocolonography with the current standard of care of colonoscopy and colonoscopic biopsies.

Participation Requirements: In order to participate in this study, a colonoscopic exam must have been recommended for workup of your dog’s problem, and your pet must be scheduled to receive a colonoscopic exam under general anesthesia at UC Davis.

Initial Evaluation for Participation: None.

Procedures: If you agree to participate, your dog will receive a CT scan (with and without intravenous contrast material) in conjunction with carbon dioxide gas insufflated into the rectal lumen.  Following CT pneumocolonography, your dog will receive the scheduled colonoscopy, which is the current standard of care for assessment of these masses, and if clinically indicated for the care of your pet, biopsies will be obtained.

Benefits: You are financially responsible for the costs of general anesthesia and the colonoscopy procedure. In return for participation in this study, your pet will receive a free CT scan (an approximately $800 value to you), which may directly benefit your dog, as it can provide important information for treatment recommendations that other types of imaging cannot.  CT evaluation of local lymph nodes is an additional benefit as CT has been demonstrated to be helpful in the evaluation of regional lymph nodes for metastatic disease in other types of cancer in other locations. 

Owner Responsibilities: There is no additional cost to you for your dog’s participation in the study. You are financially responsible for hospital costs associated with the standard care of your dog, including abdominal ultrasound, general anesthesia, colonoscopy, hospitalization, biopsies, and any other diagnostic tests recommended for evaluation of your dog’s disease by your attending clinician. 

Contact Information: Contact Drs. Michele Steffey and Stanley Marks at (530) 752-1393

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Patient Disease: Histiocytic Sarcoma

Title: Phase II evaluation of vinblastine for the treatment of canine histiocytic sarcoma

Purpose: Histiocytic sarcoma (HS) is a common and aggressive cancer in dogs that can arise from many sites including the lymph nodes, liver, spleen, lungs, or bone. If left untreated, disease progression is often rapid with a devastatingly high mortality rate. CCNU (Lomustine) is currently the only chemotherapy agent proven to be effective against this cancer, however, responses are often short-lived. In addition, CCNU may cause liver or bone marrow toxicity with continued use and is not tolerated in some patients. Thus, there is a desperate need to identify alternative agents that are effective against this disease. Vinblastine is a commonly used chemotherapeutic agent in dogs and is proven to be relatively safe and effective against other cancers, such as lymphoma and mast cell tumors. The purpose of this study is to determine whether vinblastine may have activity against canine histiocytic sarcoma.

Participation Requirements: Dogs diagnosed with histiocytic sarcoma

Initial Evaluation for Participation: None.

Procedures: Dogs will receive weekly vinblastine chemotherapy (given intravenously) at a standard starting dose with the intent to gradually increase this dose if it is well tolerated. Blood will be drawn before each dose to make sure it is safe to treat your dog that day. After 4 total doses, tumor lesions will be measured and response to vinblastine chemotherapy will be determined using standard criteria. If this measurement requires chest x-rays or ultrasound, those tests will be run at this time. After 4 doses, your dog will be considered “off-study”; however, you may choose to continue treatment with vinblastine if your dog has responded well to treatment.

Benefits: There is a $250 financial incentive meant to help cover the cost of repeat testing necessary to measure response to vinblastine treatment (required after 4 doses) or toward the costs of study treatments. Additionally, participation in this study could help treat your dog’s histiocytic sarcoma and advance veterinary medicine.

Owner Responsibilities: Owners are responsible for pre-enrollment bloodwork (CBC and chemistry screen) to determine eligibility, all costs of vinblastine treatment (drug and administration costs), cost associated with any side effects that may occur, and costs associated with non-study related medical conditions.

Contact Information: Teri Guererro (530-752-0125 or tguererro@ucdavis.edu)

Tumor Collection Only Studies

Patient Disease: Oral Malignant Melanoma

Title: Pfizer-CCOGC Biospecimen Repository study

Purpose: UC Davis in collaboration with Pfizer-CCOGC Biospecimen Repository is collecting samples to populate a tissue bank for future research studies. The goal of the CCOGC and UC Davis will be to populate the Pfizer-CCOGC Biospecimen Repository with diseased tissues and specific normal tissues from dogs with cancer over the next three years. The study is guided by the National Cancer Institute (NCI). 

Participation Requirements: 

• Owner consent to allow collection of the clinical specimens and to comply with follow-up and treatment requirements
• General clinical evaluation: Medical history, physical exam, complete blood count, biochemical profile, and urinalysis
• Histological diagnosis
• Complete staging evaluation, to include cytology or histology of submandibular lymph nodes, thoracic radiographs
• Histology of primary site

Procedures: After receiving consent from owners, a sample of the tumor is banked following the CCOGC criteria.  

Benefits: There is no cost to the owner for participation in this study.  The samples collected will be stored for future use of investigators with the ultimate goal of developing a treatment and prevention for the variety of cancers.

Owner Responsibilities: The owner only needs to consent to the sample being collected at the time of the visit.

Contact Information: Please talk to your oncologist at the time of your visit.

Patient Disease: Primary Lung Tumors

Title: Pfizer-CCOGC Biospecimen Repository study

Purpose: UC Davis in collaboration with Pfizer-CCOGC Biospecimen Repository is collecting samples to populate a tissue bank for future research studies. The goal of the CCOGC and UC Davis will be to populate the Pfizer-CCOGC Biospecimen Repository with diseased tissues and specific normal tissues from dogs with cancer over the next three years. The study is guided by the National Cancer Institute (NCI). 

Participation Requirements: 

• Owner consent to allow collection of the clinical specimens and to comply with follow-up and treatment requirements
• General clinical evaluation, including the medical history, physical exam, complete blood count, biochemical profile, and urinalysis
• Clinical presentation consistent with pulmonary tumor (Histological diagnosis confirmed post collection).
• Surgical excision or collection immediately following euthanasia

Procedures: After receiving consent from owners, a sample of the tumor is banked following the CCOGC criteria.  

Benefits: There is no cost to the owner for participation in this study.  The samples collected will be stored for future use of investigators with the ultimate goal of developing a treatment and prevention for the variety of cancers.

Owner Responsibilities: The owner only needs to consent to the sample being collected at the time of the visit.

Contact Information: Please talk to your oncologist at the time of your visit.

Patient Disease: Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Title: Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Repository study

Purpose: UC Davis is collecting oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma samples to populate a tissue bank for future research studies. 

Participation Requirements: Cats with confirmed diagnosis of oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

Procedures: After receiving consent from owners, a sample of the tumor is banked at the time of your cat's visit.  

Benefits: There is no cost to the owner for participation in this study.  The samples collected will be stored for future use of investigators with the ultimate goal of developing a treatment and prevention for the variety of cancers.

Owner Responsibilities: The owner only needs to consent to the sample being collected at the time of your cat's visit.

Contact Information: Please talk to your oncologist at the time of your visit.