Q. Are there any early detection tests for cancer in dogs?
A. Nearly half the dogs older than 10 years will get cancer. Some breeds are more prone to cancer than others. Most of the time we find cancer at later stages leading to more aggressive surgeries, radiation, and drug therapy. Now in veterinary medicine early diagnostic tests for cancer are being developed. These tests are covered by many disciplines.
Specialized computer-based scanning techniques, examining DNA and other molecules from tumors for better treatment plans, blood tests that look for cancer markers without doing surgery are being developed for early detection. When cancer is caught early, just like in people, you will have more options and possibly less invasive treatments with better prognosis.
Humans and animals share many of the same properties allowing new discoveries to be shared between the species. New technology in use now in veterinary medicine are liquid biopsies, AI powered diagnostics, finding biomarkers in blood samples, and urine tests for cancers.
Epigenetic diagnostic biomarkers are being used in human medicine. This new technology analyzes 3-dimensional organization for the genome commonly known as 3D genomics. Researchers are exploring 3D genomics in veterinary medicine to detect cancer. IDEXX has developed a cancer diagnostic panel for early detection of canine lymphoma. It is a simple blood test for sick dogs and those at risk. This company hopes to expand the detection for other cancers in the future.
Universities are studying the use of AI (artificial intelligence) to identify cancer cells in small samples of tissue. Virginia Tech is testing AI for early detection of lymphoma. These samples can be obtained by your veterinarian with a technique called fine needle aspirate, allowing a diagnosis without costly surgical biopsy.
Antech, another diagnostic lab, has developed a test using urine collected from your dog to test for bladder and prostatic cancer. This technology is called Cadet BRAF. The test is designed to detect the genetic mutation, BRAF, which causes transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) and prostatic cancer. Breeds that are prone to TCC can be screened for this mutation, resulting in early detection and treatment, prolonging the life of your companion.
VDI Laboratory is another diagnostic lab that screens cancer risk and diagnosis. This lab has a comprehensive approach identifying stressors that could lead to cancer. Using a blood sample there are a variety of analytic panels that give you and your veterinarian valuable information on keeping your best friend healthy and early detection of some cancers. They are involved in a new project in cancer diagnostics.
Oncotect, a biotech start-up company, has developed an at home test. This technology is using the strong olfactory system of the nematode to perform cancer detection. It has a sensitivity of 83% and a specificity of 96% for lymphoma, melanoma, hemangiosarcoma, and mast cell tumors. Using the kit, the guardian collects urine and mails it to the lab. The results are sent to you and your veterinarian.
Cancer technology is always progressing both for early detection, diagnostics, and treatments. If you have an older dog or one that is not feeling quite right, talk to your veterinarian about being proactive.
Judith K. Herman, DVM, CVH
Animal Wellness Center
Augusta, Maine
www.mainehomeopahticvet.com