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NGS-based Liquid Biopsy

The study discussed focuses on the development and validation of a blood-based liquid biopsy test for early cancer detection in dogs, utilizing next-generation sequencing (NGS) of cell-free DNA (cfDNA). This innovative approach is designed to improve cancer detection rates in dogs, especially for cancers in difficult-to-evaluate anatomical locations or those that are aggressive and demand prompt treatment. The test evaluates cfDNA in the blood, which includes fragments from both healthy and cancerous cells, the latter referred to as circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) containing genomic alterations indicative of cancer. 

This NGS-based liquid biopsy test has shown promising results in a clinical validation study involving 1,100 dogs, identifying genomic alterations in 30 out of 42 cancer types evaluated. The study highlights the potential of cfDNA quantification as a cost-effective, accessible method for cancer screening in dogs, offering a quicker turnaround time compared to full NGS analysis. The test's integrated approach, combining cfDNA quantification with NGS analysis in select cases, targets seven clinically relevant cancer types, achieving an overall sensitivity of 71.3% and specificity of 98.7%. 

The benefits of this screening method include its ability to act as a complement to physical examinations, potentially increasing the number and types of cancers detectable during routine wellness visits. It aims to make cancer screening more accessible and feasible for inclusion in preventive care protocols, with a focus on early detection for improved patient outcomes. However, the test faces limitations, such as the influence of various conditions on cfDNA concentration, and it is not intended to replace existing diagnostic tools but to supplement them. 

The study underscores the need for further research to refine screening recommendations and to understand the utility of early cancer detection in dogs, including its impact on clinical management and survival benefits. The development of this blood-based cancer screening tool represents a significant step toward establishing cancer screening guidelines for dogs, potentially leading to earlier detection and better outcomes for canine patients. 

Flory, A., Ruiz-Perez, C. A., Clavere-Graciette, A. G., Rafalko, J. M., O’Kell, A. L., Flesner, B. K., McLennan, L. M., Hicks, S. C., Nakashe, P., Phelps-Dunn, A., DiMarzio, L. R., Warren, C. D., Cohen, T. A., Chibuk, J., Chorny, I., Grosu, D. S., Tsui, D. W. Y., Tynan, J. A., & Kruglyak, K. M. (2024). Clinical validation of a blood-based liquid biopsy test integrating cell-free DNA quantification and next-generation sequencing for cancer screening in dogs. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.23.10.0564 

Bottom line — Potentially more cost-effective and quicker turnaround than full NGS analysis

Antibiotic Resistance in Eye Ulcers

This study focused on the bacterial isolates associated with corneal stromal ulcerations in dogs and cats in a referral population in the Netherlands, their antibiotic susceptibility, and the trends in antibiotic resistance over an 8-year period. It found Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and Pseudomonas species as the most common bacterial isolates in dogs, and Staphylococcus and Streptococcus species in cats. The study observed no significant change in overall antibiotic resistance among these isolates over time, but did note an increase in multi-drug-resistant isolates, particularly in dogs. This trend suggests a clustering of resistance within specific isolates rather than a general spread among all isolates. The majority of isolates were sensitive to enrofloxacin, although there's a caution against the common use of fluoroquinolones due to the rapid increase in antibiotic resistance they may encourage. The study also discussed the challenges in interpreting susceptibility testing due to the use of systemic breakpoint data for topically applied antibiotics, which may not accurately reflect the efficacy of topical treatments. Limitations of the study included its retrospective nature and the potential underestimation of concurrent ophthalmic conditions. The increase in resistance to chloramphenicol among dogs previously treated with this antibiotic highlights the importance of prudent antibiotic use in veterinary practice.

Verdenius CY, Broens  EM, Slenter IJM, Djajadiningrat-Laanen SC. Corneal stromal ulcerations in a referral population of dogs and cats in the Netherlands (2012–2019): Bacterial isolates and antibiotic resistance. Vet Ophthalmol. 2024; 27: 7-16. doi:10.1111/vop.13080 

Bottom Line — Minimal change in overall resistance but increase in multiple drug resistance

Cementoplasty for Osteosarcoma Pain

The study led by Aquilino Villamonte Chevalier and colleagues from various veterinary institutions across Europe and the USA investigated the use of in situ minimally invasive calcium phosphate cement injection, known as cementoplasty, as a conservative surgical option for managing appendicular osteosarcoma in dogs. This approach was considered for cases where traditional treatments like limb amputation and chemotherapy might not be feasible. The research aimed to showcase the feasibility of using an improved injectable calcium phosphate cement for treating osteosarcomas in various locations and stages of the disease across the limbs of dogs. 

In the study, 10 dogs with osteosarcoma in different limb locations (distal and proximal tibia, distal radius, proximal humerus, and femur) underwent cementoplasty using a ready-to-use cement formulation. The surgical techniques varied based on the surgeons' preferences and the equipment available, with some consideration given to adjuvant therapy based on the owners' decisions. 

The outcomes were positive, showing that the cementoplasty effectively filled tumor cavities regardless of the surgical approach, leading to immediate and sustained improvements in the dogs' gait and pain management. This treatment improved the quality of life for most of the dogs involved, except for one case. Complications were minimal, although there was a report of a pathological fracture in a dog that had presented with one initially. 

The study concludes that cementoplasty is a feasible and safe palliative treatment option for dogs with osteosarcoma in various limbs and stages. It offers significant benefits for preserving limb function, preventing pathological fractures, and relieving pain, utilizing a product that is easy to apply in different surgical contexts 

(2024), ESVONC abstracts. Vet Comp Oncol, 22: 3-19.https://doi.org/10.1111/vco.12951 

Bottom line — Exciting technique.

Just putting things in perspective …