Supportive care for nonresectable HCCs in dogs has shown a median survival time of 9 months. Case reports and anecdotal evidence for stereotactic radiation to canine HCC suggests long-term control over 18 months with minimal adverse effects.

The goal of this study is to support the preliminary evidence and provide a protocol that can be used without advanced motion monitoring, which is technology that is not widely available in veterinary medicine.

• Dogs with a histologic- or cytologic-confirmed hepatocellular carcinoma
  • Cytologic diagnosis is permitted if it provides a definitive diagnosis
  • No diffuse HCC due to lack of discrete target
• No previous radiation therapy of this tumor
• Complete blood count (performed within past six weeks)
• Blood chemistry panel (performed within past six weeks)
• Thoracic radiographs (or other thoracic imaging, performed within past six weeks)

Dogs will undergo a specialized planning CT scan of the liver, three stereotactic radiation treatments, and routine rechecks for the first year after radiation. At six months, MSU also will perform a recheck CT scan. All scans and radiation treatments will be done under general anesthesia. Most of these costs will be covered by the trial.

• The trial is enrolling patients now through June 30, 2024.
• We will notify you if the trial fully enrolls.

Please contact Dr. Linn at moore231@msu.edu or the MSU Radiation Oncology Service at cvm.radonc@msu.edu or 517-353-5420.