Late presentation of canine nasal tumours in a UK referral hospital andtreatment outcomes

• Published in: Journal of small animal practice Vol. 54; no. 7; p. 347
• Main Authors: Mason, S. L, Maddox, T. W, Lillis, S. M, Blackwood, L
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford Wiley Subscription Services, Inc 01-07-2013
• Subjects: Dogs; Medical treatment; Radiation therapy; Tumors
• ISSN: 0022-4510; 1748-5827
• DOI: 10.1111/jsap.12083

Objectives To determine the computed tomographic stage of dogs with nasal tumours in a UK referral population, and whether stage, time to referral and treatment correlates with outcome. Methods Retrospective review of clinical records and computed tomography scans of dogs with nasal tumours. Results Dogs (n=78) presented to a referral practice in the UK with suspected nasal tumours are presented with more late stage tumours than dogs in the USA and Japan. Length of time from initial presentation to referral did not correlate with tumour stage at diagnosis. Median survival times for radiotherapy-treated dogs in this population are equivalent to those previously reported for late stage nasal tumours. Clinical Significance Dogs with nasal tumours are presented late in the course of disease in the North West of England. Dogs with clinical signs consistent with a nasal tumour should have timely imaging and biopsy, in order to make prompt treatment decisions. Although survival times are comparable with previous reports and radiotherapy is a valid treatment option for dogs with late stage disease, better outcomes are likely to be achievable with earlier treatment. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]