Dr. Al Townshend
If you are not familiar with Canine Mast Cell Tumors, I recommend reading the Kali’s Wish website article on Canine Mast Cell Tumours.
Cancer research is a hot topic, with new advancements occurring almost daily. Both human and animal cancers are so similar that the research in either field can be relevant for both.
Studies of the most detailed aspects of certain cancers have opened the door to new and exciting potential avenues for treating many different cancers for both animals and humans.
When it comes to cancer treatment, one must always keep in mind a cure is not always possible, and the primary goal is to buy time and quality of life the patient.
Traditionally, the treatment for Mast Cell Tumors has been early surgery, before the tumor gets too big or spreads. Radiation and chemotherapy could be added when the cancer has spread or in an effort to reduce the size before surgery. Today, newer types of treatments are being proposed that offer additional hope.
Targeted Therapy is a type of treatment that uses drugs or other substances to identify and attack specific types of cancer cells with less harm to normal cells.
Immunotherapies use the power of the body’s own immune system to prevent, control, and eliminate cancer. (For more information https://kaliswish.org/immunotherapy/)
Intratumoral Therapy uses products that are injected directly into the tumour.
Any cancer treatment requires a close working relationship with a trusted veterinarian. Newer developing treatments often are best considered after consulting a veterinary cancer specialist to be certain of the best treatment options for your specific pet.
There is an increasing number of these newer treatment options that have been approved and are available. Ongoing research and clinical trials offer hope that these new and exciting avenues to cancer treatment will offer even greater hope for the future.
This page has been reviewed by our Panel of Experts for accuracy. Our Panel of Experts is comprised of practitioners with varying specialties and perspectives. As such, the views expressed here may not be shared by all members of our Panel.
The content on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
