Osteosarcoma Study

08/21/2008
NEVOG is announcing the availability of a partially funded prospective clinical trial evaluating the use of Carboplatin and Gemzar (Gemcitabine) chemotherapy in the post amputation treatment of canine appendicular osteosarcoma.

Osteosarcoma is the most common bone tumor in dogs occurring primarily in the long bones resulting in bone destruction, pain, and lameness. Treatment involves amputation of the affected limb followed by chemotherapy, as nearly all dogs have microscopic spread of their cancer at the time of diagnosis. Despite the use of chemotherapy, approximately 90% of dogs with osteosarcoma will die of metastasis (spread) within 2 years of amputation.

This protocol is evaluating the combination of Carboplatin, the standard of care for the treatment of canine osteosarcoma, and Gemzar (Gemcitabine) which is a newer chemotherapy drug. Gemzar has known activity against several human cancers and is currently being evaluated in the treatment of human pediatric osteosarcoma.

Oncologists at The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine have generated data in their laboratory showing that Gemcitabine is capable of killing canine osteosarcoma tumor cells. It has also shown an enhanced effect at killing these cells when used in combination with Carboplatin greater than the effect of either drug used alone. Through a partnership with OSU, we are fortunate to be able to offer this treatment combination.

The purpose of this study is to treat dogs with osteosarcoma following amputation with Carboplatin at a standard dose followed by Gemcitabine on the same day to determine the effect of combined therapy on overall disease free interval and survival time. The cost of both chemotherapy drugs (Carboplatin and Gemcitabine) will be covered by the study.

Referring veterinarians please contact NEVOG to speak to one of our oncologists for details regarding study eligibility and referral for enrollment. Owners of pets diagnosed with osteosarcoma should ask their veterinarian to contact NEVOG for details.