Immunotherapy

Immunity is a term that describes a state of having sufficient biological defenses to avoid infection, disease or other unwanted biological invasion such as cancer. This defense is principally made up white blood cells and small protein cell-signaling molecules called cytokines. Thus the treatment of cancer or other disease by inducing, enhancing or suppressing an immune response is called immunotherapy. This broad term includes the use of immunomodulators which are naturally derived and synthetic preparations such as vaccines and medications that can be used for the treatment of cancer.

Most immunotherapies are designed to stimulate the immune system. However the alternate approach, suppressing the immune system can also be used. An example of when immune suppression might be indicated is when trying to overcome the body's immune tolerance of cancer. A condition where tumor cells inhibit the natural immune system defenses in order to survive.

Although extensive research in this complex area of cancer treatment is being conducted, many studies are still ongoing and only few agents have proven to be safe and beneficial. Recently great attention has been placed on vaccines which are defined as a biologic preparation that contains a weakened agent of the disease (bacteria, virus, tumor cell) or constituent of it (DNA, RNA, protein) given to improve immunity. An example of such therapy for the treatment of cancer in animals is the DNA based canine melanoma vaccine used to mitigate the high risk of tumor metastasis.

One well known immunomodulator in human oncology is Rituximab an antibody therapy used in the treatment of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Although animals develop cancers similar to humans they are not identical. Therefore, agents such as Rituximab are not beneficial across species.

Whenever possible adjunctive therapies such as vaccines or immunotherapy will be used as adjunctive therapy. Your veterinary oncologist will discuss with you if immunotherapy may be a benefit for your pet.

Oncology

The mission of the Oncology Consultation Service is to provide cutting-edge treatments for your pet with cancer, while focusing on quality-of-life. Advances in veterinary cancer treatments are made every day and many types of cancers are very treatable. In fact, dogs and cats with cancer are living months or even years longer than they would have with the same types of cancers just a few years ago. Many cancers in animals, while still very serious, can largely be managed as “chronic conditions” with ongoing surveillance and/or treatment, similar to the way veterinarians treat heart disease, kidney disease, or diabetes.

Who will you see at VCA Colonial Animal Hospital if your pet is referred for an Oncology Consultation?
Dr. Ken Rassnick is a board-certified specialist in Oncology and his Oncology Service offers individualized patient care for all pets with cancer. Dr. Rassnick is supported by a talented team of highly trained licensed veterinary technicians specializing in oncology. The oncology technicians provide an exceptional level of patient care and are equally committed to supporting the social and emotional needs of you and your family.

What to expect if your pet is referred to see Dr. Rassnick:
Dr. Rassnick’s Oncology Service offers pet-owners experience, expertise, and compassionate individualized care for your pet with cancer. The oncology consultation will provide you with information and peace of mind to make the best possible choices for you and your pet.

Initial oncology consultations usually take one hour. During that time your pet’s complete cancer and medical history are reviewed and a comprehensive physical examination is done. You will meet with Dr. Rassnick during the consultation and will discuss his recommendations for further diagnostics and/or treatments. With the exception of diabetic pets, no food should be given after 6 pm the evening before your pet’s initial oncology appointment, as some diagnostic tests are best performed and interpreted when pets are fasted. You should continue to allow free access to water. If you have any questions about feeding or administering your pet’s current medications prior to your consultation with Dr. Rassnick, do not hesitate calling the hospital.

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Our Oncology Services

Blood Chemistry Analyzer

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Bone Marrow Aspirate

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Bone Marrow Transplant

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Cancer Staging

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