Pilot study evaluating stereotactic body radiation therapy for feline facial squamous cell carcinomas

Abstract

Objectives The use of stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) has not been assessed in advanced-stage feline solar-induced facial squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs). The objective of this study was to provide preliminary data on the use and safety profile of coarse fractions administered with an SBRT regime to manage advanced-stage feline solar-induced facial SCCs. Methods This retrospective study assessed five cats diagnosed with advanced-stage solar-induced facial SCCs that received SBRT as their primary treatment or, in one cat, following failed surgical intervention. Tumour sites received three fractions totalling 26.25–27 Gy over a 3–5-day period. Results All patients developed acute effects following SBRT including alopecia, epilation and erythema. Late effects were mild and included alopecia, variable pigmentation and leukotrichia within radiation fields. All patients are currently alive at the time of submission, with overall survival times ranging from 118 to 991 days. Conclusions and relevance The results suggest that coarse fractions administered with an SBRT technique is a safe and effective treatment tool for the management of advanced-stage feline solar-induced facial SCCs. These data provide preliminary evidence to support larger, prospective studies evaluating the management of feline facial SCCs with SBRT.