Mind-Blowing breakthrough: Canine cancer treatment that astonished even experts!

In human medicine, intrathecal chemotherapy is a well-known treatment for central nervous system hematopoietic neoplasia. However, its application and benefits in veterinary medicine remain relatively unexplored. In this case report, we delve into the story of a 4-year-old male cross-breed dog who presented with concerning symptoms, leading to an intriguing use of intrathecal chemotherapy.

The Initial Presentation

The case begins with a 4-year-old male dog who suddenly became lethargic, experienced weakness in his hind limbs, and had difficulty urinating over a 24-hour period. A thorough examination revealed enlarged peripheral lymph nodes throughout his body, and neurological assessments suggested a myelopathy affecting the area between the third thoracic and third lumbar vertebrae (T3-L3).

Diagnosis: Multicentric Lymphoblastic B-cell Lymphoma

Following diagnostic evaluations, it was determined that the dog had multicentric lymphoblastic B-cell lymphoma, classified as stage Vb. Treatment commenced with a modified L-LOP regimen, including the use of cytosine arabinoside, which resulted in complete clinical remission.

Unexpected Setback: Neurological Deterioration

However, just four weeks into treatment, the dog experienced a sudden and severe decline in neurological function, characterized by spinal pain and proprioceptive deficits. Notably, there was no recurrence of peripheral lymph node enlargement. MRI scans and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis pointed to the presence of lymphoma in the meninges and spinal cord, particularly at the L3 level.

Intrathecal Chemotherapy to the Rescue

Intrathecal chemotherapy, involving the administration of cytosine arabinoside and methotrexate directly into the cisterna magna, was initiated alongside systemic dexamethasone and pain relief medications. Remarkably, the dog's clinical symptoms resolved within 24 hours, and he remained symptom-free for 3.5 weeks.

A Temporary Remission

Unfortunately, after this period of relief, the dog displayed signs of central nervous system (CNS) relapse, characterized by proprioceptive deficits and severe pain in the thoracolumbar region. However, the option for repeat intrathecal chemotherapy was not pursued. Regrettably, the patient was euthanized nine weeks after the initial diagnosis.

A Landmark Case: Intrathecal Chemotherapy in Dogs

This case represents a pioneering example of the clinical benefits of intrathecal chemotherapy using a combination of methotrexate and cytarabine for the management of CNS lymphoma in dogs. Our findings indicate that this approach can induce a short-lived remission of CNS clinical symptoms, lasting approximately three weeks.

Read more by clicking on the link below:

Intrathecal chemotherapy for the management of lymphoblastic lymphoma in a 4-year-old dog: a case report