Description and efficacy of a response‐based “QUAD” cyclical hypofractionated palliative‐intent radiation protocol in dogs with macroscopic solid tumours: 108 cases

Abstract

Palliative‐intent radiation therapy can alleviate pain and clinical signs in dogs with cancer, but optimal fractionation scheme is unknown. The objective of this retrospective case series is to evaluate clinical benefit, objective response, adverse effects, and outcomes in 108 dogs with macroscopic solid tumours treated with a cyclical “QUAD” hypofractionated palliative‐intent radiation therapy protocol. Median QUAD dose was 14 Gy (14–16 Gy). Median total dose was 28 Gy (14–48 Gy). Clinical benefit rate was 93%, with median onset of subjective palliation 21 days after the first QUAD, lasting a median of 134 days. Tumour volumetric objective response was assessed with CT prior to the third QUAD in 36 dogs, with stable disease in 24 dogs (67%) and partial response in 9 dogs (25%). Sinonasal and oral were the most common tumour locations in 32 and 30 dogs, respectively. Median progression‐free survival was 153 days (95% CI 114–200). Median overall survival was 212 days (95% CI 152–259). Number of QUAD cycles completed, clinical benefit achieved, anti‐inflammatory received, total radiation dose, time to maximum clinical benefit, and response duration were positively associated with progression‐free and overall survival. Acute toxicities were observed in 15 dogs (14%) with 3 high‐grade (grade 3) toxicities (3%). Low‐grade (grade 1 and 2) late skin and ocular toxicities were observed in 31 dogs (29%), predominantly leukotrichia, alopecia, keratoconjunctivitis sicca, and cataracts. This report demonstrates that QUAD radiation is an alternative protocol to be considered for palliation of dogs with inoperable or advanced stage solid tumours.