Artificial intelligence-based image analysis of lymph node mast cells in canine cutaneous mast cell tumors
This will assess a new approach to analyze metastasis of cutaneous mast cell tumors, a common skin cancer in dogs. Researchers hope to find patterns that can help predict how aggressive the cancer is and how it might progress. The goal of this research is to identify clearer signs of aggressive tumors and possibly inform clinicians as to how to approach treating this cancer.
Dogs must have a fine needle aspirate (cytology) of the tumor, confirming the diagnosis of cutaneous mast cell tumor
Dogs in this study undergo radiographic indirect lymphangiography, which is a technique that allows clinicians to locate lymph nodes that the cancer is considered most likely to metastasize to. This procedure involves the injection of a contrast medium that can be visualized on radiographs (x-rays). Any lymph nodes identified by this process can be removed and assessed for cancer metastasis.
This procedure represents a clinically standard means of identifying possible lymph nodes for removal and evaluation, and therefore, may be recommended in animals even if they are not enrolled in this study.
Client Compensation:
The lymphangiography procedure, as well as histopathology/biopsy fees, will be recompensated.
Potential Medical Benefits:
The data from this study may result in a novel nodal grading scheme that will help predict biological behavior of MCTs. In addition, nodal extirpation/removal has been shown to be associated with an overall better prognosis.
Potential Medical Risks:
There are some risks associated with anesthesia and surgery that will be explained by your clinician and detailed on the consent form for the procedure. There are some risks, though uncommon, associated with the administration of the contrast medium and any possible sedation necessary for the lymphangiography. While it is possible that your dog may experience unexpected side effects from the sedation or contrast medium, your dog will be observed closely for any side effects and appropriate medical care provided if necessary.
What qualifies my pet for enrollment?
Inclusion Criteria:
• Cytologic diagnosis of 1-2 cutaneous MCT
• Amenable to surgical excision
• At least 7-day washout of corticosteroids, if administered
• Surgery within ~2 weeks of nodal staging
Exclusion Criteria:
• Recurrent MCT
• Cytologic evidence of visceral metastasis
• Concurrent systemic illness
• >2 MCTs in the same nodal drainage basin
• Received previous neoadjuvant therapy or radiotherapy (steroids (with washout noted above) and antihistamines acceptable)
Diagnosis/Condition Being Studied: Mast cell tumor
PRE-SCREENING QUESTIONNAIRE
If you believe your pet may be eligible for this study, please complete a pre-screening questionnaire.