Evaluation of strontium 90 irradiation in treatment of cutaneous mast cell tumors in cats: 35 cases (1992-2002).
OBJECTIVE
To determine the efficacy of strontium 90 beta irradiation in the management of cutaneous mast cell tumors (CMCTs) in cats.


METHODS
Retrospective case series.


METHODS
35 client-owned cats with CMCTs.


METHODS
Medical records of cats with CMCTs in which tumors were radiated by use of a strontium 90 ophthalmic applicator from 1992 to 2002 were reviewed. Cats were included if CMCT was diagnosed, there were no other sites of MCT involvement at the time of treatment, and records contained adequate follow-up information to permit retrospective assessment of local tumor control.


RESULTS
54 tumors in 35 cats were treated with a median dose of 135 Gy of strontium 90 beta irradiation, resulting in local tumor control in 53 of 54 (98%) tumors with a median follow-up time of 783 days after treatment. Median survival time was 1,075 days. Adverse effects of treatment appeared to be infrequent and of mild severity.


CONCLUSIONS
Results indicated that strontium 90 beta irradiation resulted in long-term tumor control and should be considered an effective alternative to surgical resection in management of CMCTs in cats.
Veterinary Oncology Specialties, 225 Carmel Ave, Pacifica, CA 94044, USA.
Jane M
JM
Turrel
John
J
Farrelly
Rodney L
RL
Page
Margaret C
MC
McEntee
D000818:Animals; D002371:Cat Diseases / Q000401:mortality / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D002415:Cats; D004307:Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation; D005260:Female; D008297:Male; D012515:Mast-Cell Sarcoma / Q000401:mortality / Q000532:radiotherapy / Q000662:veterinary*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000401:mortality / Q000532:radiotherapy / Q000662:veterinary*; D013326:Strontium Radioisotopes / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D016019:Survival Analysis; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D013326:Strontium Radioisotopes