Biomarkers for feline lymphoma

Taylor SS, Dodkin S, Papasouliotis K, et al. Serum thymidine kinase activity in clinically healthy and diseased cats: a potential biomarker for lymphoma. J Feline Med Surg. 2013; 15: 142-7. 

Researchers at the University of Bristol, UK and collaborators investigated the utility of serum thymidine kinase-1 (sTK1) as a biomarker for feline lymphoma. Thymidine kinase-1 is a cytoplasmic salvage enzyme involved in phosphorylation of deoxythymidine to deoxythymidine monophosphate, one of the key steps in the synthesis of DNA and thereby in cell division and proliferation. Its action is markedly increased only during the DNA synthesis phase (S-phase) of the cell cycle. This association with DNA synthesis and correlation with cell proliferation is particularly high in hematopoietic malignancies like feline lymphoma. The aim of this study was to determine a reference level for sTK1 in clinically healthy cats and then to evaluate the potential use of sTK1 as a biomarker for feline lymphoma by comparing levels in cats with lymphoma, inflammatory disease, and non-hematopoietic neoplasia (NHPN).

Forty-nine serum samples were collected from clinically healthy cats and sTK1 activity was determined using a radioenzyme technique which has a linear measurement range of 1-100 U/l. Based on these healthy cats, a reference interval of sTK1 < 5.5 U/l was established. The lymphoma group comprised 33 cats with a median age of 9 years, the inflammatory disease group comprised 55 cats with a median age of 7 years, and the NHPN group comprised of 34 cats with a median age of 10 years. Stringent criteria were used for inclusion in each group. The majority of cats in each group were non-pedigree cats. Cats in the lymphoma group had significantly higher mean sTK1 activity level (17.5 U/l) than clinically healthy cats (2.2 U/l), cats with inflammatory disease (3.4 U/l), or cats with NHPN (4.3 U/l). However, the lymphoma group showed a wide variability in the sTK1 activity (<1 to >100 U/l) and a receiver-operator curve (ROC) revealed a low sensitivity for this test. The researchers suggest a cut-off point of 8.9 U/l based on the ROC is highly suggestive of a lymphoma diagnosis, while there is a low predictability for cats with low sTK1 values. In addition, the number of cats in the study was too low to draw conclusions regarding lymphoma anatomical location and sTK1 activity. [GO]

Related blog posts:
Alimentary lymphoma in cats (Feb. 2013)
Lomustine for treatment of feline lymphoma (Dec. 2012)

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Taylor SS, Dodkin S, Papasouliotis K, et al. Serum thymidine kinase activity in clinically healthy and diseased cats: a potential biomarker for lymphoma. J Feline Med Surg. 2013; 15: 142-7. 

Researchers at the University of Bristol, UK and collaborators investigated the utility of serum thymidine kinase-1 (sTK1) as a biomarker for feline lymphoma. Thymidine kinase-1 is a cytoplasmic salvage enzyme involved in phosphorylation of deoxythymidine to deoxythymidine monophosphate, one of the key steps in the synthesis of DNA and thereby in cell division and proliferation. Its action is markedly increased only during the DNA synthesis phase (S-phase) of the cell cycle. This association with DNA synthesis and correlation with cell proliferation is particularly high in hematopoietic malignancies like feline lymphoma. The aim of this study was to determine a reference level for sTK1 in clinically healthy cats and then to evaluate the potential use of sTK1 as a biomarker for feline lymphoma by comparing levels in cats with lymphoma, inflammatory disease, and non-hematopoietic neoplasia (NHPN).

Forty-nine serum samples were collected from clinically healthy cats and sTK1 activity was determined using a radioenzyme technique which has a linear measurement range of 1-100 U/l. Based on these healthy cats, a reference interval of sTK1 < 5.5 U/l was established. The lymphoma group comprised 33 cats with a median age of 9 years, the inflammatory disease group comprised 55 cats with a median age of 7 years, and the NHPN group comprised of 34 cats with a median age of 10 years. Stringent criteria were used for inclusion in each group. The majority of cats in each group were non-pedigree cats. Cats in the lymphoma group had significantly higher mean sTK1 activity level (17.5 U/l) than clinically healthy cats (2.2 U/l), cats with inflammatory disease (3.4 U/l), or cats with NHPN (4.3 U/l). However, the lymphoma group showed a wide variability in the sTK1 activity (<1 to >100 U/l) and a receiver-operator curve (ROC) revealed a low sensitivity for this test. The researchers suggest a cut-off point of 8.9 U/l based on the ROC is highly suggestive of a lymphoma diagnosis, while there is a low predictability for cats with low sTK1 values. In addition, the number of cats in the study was too low to draw conclusions regarding lymphoma anatomical location and sTK1 activity. [GO]

Related blog posts:
Alimentary lymphoma in cats (Feb. 2013)
Lomustine for treatment of feline lymphoma (Dec. 2012)

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Alimentary lymphoma in cats

Russell KJ, Beatty JA, Dhand N, et al. Feline low-grade alimentary lymphoma: how common is it? J Feline Med Surg. 2012; 14: 910-2. 

The most common anatomical form of lymphoma in cats is alimentary lymphoma (AL). It is characterized by an infiltration of the gastrointestinal tract and/or associated lymph nodes with neoplastic (cancerous) lymphocytes. There are three subtypes based on mitotic rate and cell type (determined by examination of biopsy samples): low grade (LG-AL), intermediate-grade (IG-AL), and high-grade (HG-AL). Low-grade alimentary lymphoma requires a histological evaluation of biopsies for diagnosis while intermediate- and high-grade alimentary lymphoma can be diagnosed by cytology of intestinal or mesenteric lymph node aspirates. It is usually not possible to differentiate LG-AL from inflammatory bowel disease or benign lymphoid hyperplasia by using cytology alone. 

The authors investigated the relative prevalence of AL subtypes diagnosed by both histopathology and cytology among cases in Australia over a 5-year period. The studied identified 53 cases of AL, comprising 30 diagnosed by histology (15 LG-AL, 13, HG-AL, 2 IG-AL) and 23 (IG-AL/HG-AL) diagnosed by cytology. LG-AL accounted for 28% of all diagnosed alimentary lymphoma cases, and 50% of cases diagnosed by histopathology. A palpable abdominal mass, anemia, and a gastrointestinal mural (wall) mass found on abdominal ultrasound (0% of LG-AL cases) were more common in IG-AL/HGAL than in in LG-AL. Gastric/intestinal wall thickening was the most commonly reported abnormality (82%) when a detailed abdominal ultrasound report was available. When intestinal thickening was noted, a loss of normal layering was more common in cats with IG-AL/HG-AL than those with LG-AL. Hypoalbuminemia (low serum albumin levels) was found in 25% of the cats with IG-AL/HG-AL and none of the cats with LG-AL. Of 15 cats tested for FIV and FeLV, 3 were positive for FIV antibody and none were positive for FeLV antigen. [VT]

See also: Willard MD. Alimentary neoplasia in geriatric dogs and cats. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. 2012; 42: 693-706, vi. 

Related blog posts:
Feline lymphoma and body weight status (Apr. 2012)
Feline lymphoma therapy (Sept. 2011)

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Russell KJ, Beatty JA, Dhand N, et al. Feline low-grade alimentary lymphoma: how common is it? J Feline Med Surg. 2012; 14: 910-2. 

The most common anatomical form of lymphoma in cats is alimentary lymphoma (AL). It is characterized by an infiltration of the gastrointestinal tract and/or associated lymph nodes with neoplastic (cancerous) lymphocytes. There are three subtypes based on mitotic rate and cell type (determined by examination of biopsy samples): low grade (LG-AL), intermediate-grade (IG-AL), and high-grade (HG-AL). Low-grade alimentary lymphoma requires a histological evaluation of biopsies for diagnosis while intermediate- and high-grade alimentary lymphoma can be diagnosed by cytology of intestinal or mesenteric lymph node aspirates. It is usually not possible to differentiate LG-AL from inflammatory bowel disease or benign lymphoid hyperplasia by using cytology alone. 

The authors investigated the relative prevalence of AL subtypes diagnosed by both histopathology and cytology among cases in Australia over a 5-year period. The studied identified 53 cases of AL, comprising 30 diagnosed by histology (15 LG-AL, 13, HG-AL, 2 IG-AL) and 23 (IG-AL/HG-AL) diagnosed by cytology. LG-AL accounted for 28% of all diagnosed alimentary lymphoma cases, and 50% of cases diagnosed by histopathology. A palpable abdominal mass, anemia, and a gastrointestinal mural (wall) mass found on abdominal ultrasound (0% of LG-AL cases) were more common in IG-AL/HGAL than in in LG-AL. Gastric/intestinal wall thickening was the most commonly reported abnormality (82%) when a detailed abdominal ultrasound report was available. When intestinal thickening was noted, a loss of normal layering was more common in cats with IG-AL/HG-AL than those with LG-AL. Hypoalbuminemia (low serum albumin levels) was found in 25% of the cats with IG-AL/HG-AL and none of the cats with LG-AL. Of 15 cats tested for FIV and FeLV, 3 were positive for FIV antibody and none were positive for FeLV antigen. [VT]

See also: Willard MD. Alimentary neoplasia in geriatric dogs and cats. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. 2012; 42: 693-706, vi. 

Related blog posts:
Feline lymphoma and body weight status (Apr. 2012)
Feline lymphoma therapy (Sept. 2011)

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Lomustine for treatment of feline lymphoma

Dutelle AL, Bulman-Fleming JC, Lewis CA and Rosenberg MP. Evaluation of lomustine as a rescue agent for cats with resistant lymphoma. J Feline Med Surg. 2012; 14: 694-700.
 
Treating cases of resistant lymphoma is very challenging for veterinarians. The study reported here evaluated the use of lomustine as a rescue agent for 39 cases of resistant lymphoma in cats. The aims of the study were to evaluate lomustine as a rescue agent in this scenario, to determine prognostic factors for progression-free interval, and to detail toxicities noted in the course of the study. Progression-free interval (PFI) was defined as the time from when a cat was placed on lomustine to subsequent progression of disease necessitating a protocol change or euthanasia. The different parameters evaluated were lymphocyte cell size, number of previous chemotherapy drugs and number of chemotherapy protocols received, time from lymphoma diagnosis to initiation of lomustine therapy, body weight, and anatomic location of lymphoma.

The results demonstrated that the significant prognostic factors for PFI were cell size, number of previous chemotherapeutic drugs, number of previous chemotherapeutic protocols, and anatomic location. Cats with large cell lymphoma were 9.8 times more likely to have disease progression. Twenty-one cats (54%) received more than 1 dose of lomustine. Cats that had received 3 to 4 prior protocols were 3.6 times more likely to have disease progression than cats receiving 1 or 2 prior protocols. And cats with non-GI lymphoma were 4.7 times more likely to have progression of disease as ones with GI lymphoma. The most commonly noted toxicities in this study were vomiting, diarrhea, thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, and elevated ALT. It was noted that strict monitoring of the CBC while cats are on this drug is very important. [VT]

See also: Musser ML, Quinn HT and Chretin JD. Low apparent risk of CCNU (lomustine)-associated clinical hepatotoxicity in cats. J Feline Med Surg. 2012; 14: 871-5.

Related blog articles:
Pulmonary fibrosis in a cat receiving lomustine (July 2008)
Treatment for mast cell tumors in cats (April 2008)

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Dutelle AL, Bulman-Fleming JC, Lewis CA and Rosenberg MP. Evaluation of lomustine as a rescue agent for cats with resistant lymphoma. J Feline Med Surg. 2012; 14: 694-700.
 
Treating cases of resistant lymphoma is very challenging for veterinarians. The study reported here evaluated the use of lomustine as a rescue agent for 39 cases of resistant lymphoma in cats. The aims of the study were to evaluate lomustine as a rescue agent in this scenario, to determine prognostic factors for progression-free interval, and to detail toxicities noted in the course of the study. Progression-free interval (PFI) was defined as the time from when a cat was placed on lomustine to subsequent progression of disease necessitating a protocol change or euthanasia. The different parameters evaluated were lymphocyte cell size, number of previous chemotherapy drugs and number of chemotherapy protocols received, time from lymphoma diagnosis to initiation of lomustine therapy, body weight, and anatomic location of lymphoma.

The results demonstrated that the significant prognostic factors for PFI were cell size, number of previous chemotherapeutic drugs, number of previous chemotherapeutic protocols, and anatomic location. Cats with large cell lymphoma were 9.8 times more likely to have disease progression. Twenty-one cats (54%) received more than 1 dose of lomustine. Cats that had received 3 to 4 prior protocols were 3.6 times more likely to have disease progression than cats receiving 1 or 2 prior protocols. And cats with non-GI lymphoma were 4.7 times more likely to have progression of disease as ones with GI lymphoma. The most commonly noted toxicities in this study were vomiting, diarrhea, thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, and elevated ALT. It was noted that strict monitoring of the CBC while cats are on this drug is very important. [VT]

See also: Musser ML, Quinn HT and Chretin JD. Low apparent risk of CCNU (lomustine)-associated clinical hepatotoxicity in cats. J Feline Med Surg. 2012; 14: 871-5.

Related blog articles:
Pulmonary fibrosis in a cat receiving lomustine (July 2008)
Treatment for mast cell tumors in cats (April 2008)

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Feline lymphoma & body weight status

Krick EL, Moore RH, Cohen RB and Sorenmo KU. Prognostic significance of weight changes during treatment of feline lymphoma. J Feline Med Surg. 2011; 13: 976-83.

Ultrasound image of kidney lymphoma in a cat

The most common hematopoietic cancer diagnosed in cats is lymphoma. While several prognostic factors have been documented, another prognostic factor recently evaluated is weight loss. Body weight may be a simple, objective, and practical marker of patient status over time. It is common in clinical practice to use body weight as an assessment of both response to and tolerance of therapy. This study looked at the prognostic significance of weight changes during treatment of cats with lymphoma. Another purpose was to compare weight changes according to baseline body weight, lymphoma cell type (large versus small cell), and tumor location.

The records of 209 cats treated for lymphoma with chemotherapy from 1995 to 2007 were evaluated. Cats with large cell lymphoma had a significantly shorter survival time if they had lost ≥ 5% of their weight at 1 month of treatment than those that had gained weight or had a stable weight. Weight loss and other clinical signs experienced by cats undergoing lymphoma treatment may be a result of the disease itself as well as chemotherapy side effects and it may be challenging to tell the difference. The first 2 months of treatment may be the best time to begin therapeutic interventions and nutritional support in addition to chemotherapy to decrease weight loss. [VT]

Related articles: Taylor SS, Goodfellow MR, Browne WJ, et al. Feline extranodal lymphoma: response to chemotherapy and survival in 110 cats. J Small Anim Pract. 2009; 50: 584-92.

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Krick EL, Moore RH, Cohen RB and Sorenmo KU. Prognostic significance of weight changes during treatment of feline lymphoma. J Feline Med Surg. 2011; 13: 976-83.

Ultrasound image of kidney lymphoma in a cat

The most common hematopoietic cancer diagnosed in cats is lymphoma. While several prognostic factors have been documented, another prognostic factor recently evaluated is weight loss. Body weight may be a simple, objective, and practical marker of patient status over time. It is common in clinical practice to use body weight as an assessment of both response to and tolerance of therapy. This study looked at the prognostic significance of weight changes during treatment of cats with lymphoma. Another purpose was to compare weight changes according to baseline body weight, lymphoma cell type (large versus small cell), and tumor location.

The records of 209 cats treated for lymphoma with chemotherapy from 1995 to 2007 were evaluated. Cats with large cell lymphoma had a significantly shorter survival time if they had lost ≥ 5% of their weight at 1 month of treatment than those that had gained weight or had a stable weight. Weight loss and other clinical signs experienced by cats undergoing lymphoma treatment may be a result of the disease itself as well as chemotherapy side effects and it may be challenging to tell the difference. The first 2 months of treatment may be the best time to begin therapeutic interventions and nutritional support in addition to chemotherapy to decrease weight loss. [VT]

Related articles: Taylor SS, Goodfellow MR, Browne WJ, et al. Feline extranodal lymphoma: response to chemotherapy and survival in 110 cats. J Small Anim Pract. 2009; 50: 584-92.

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Feline Lymphoma Therapy

Parshley DL, Larue SM, Kitchell B et al: Abdominal irradiation as a rescue therapy for feline gastrointestinal lymphoma: a retrospective study of 11 cats (2001-2008), J Feline Medicine Surg 13:63, 2011.

The first line of therapy for feline lymphoma has been primarily chemotherapy. Cats will respond well to chemotherapy protocols, with response rates ranging between 50 and 75% depending on protocol, tumor grade, and location of the lymphoma. Radiation therapy in feline lymphoma is mostly used in nasal, extranodal, or single node lymphoma. The authors conducted a retrospective study of the medical records of 11 cats with gastrointestinal lymphoma. All the cats had relapsed or resistant lymphoma. These patients were evaluated to determine the efficacy of radiation therapy when used in a rescue therapy setting. The population distribution between males and females was a ratio of 2.3:1. The most common clinical sign noted prior to diagnosis was weight loss. The cats received two fractions of radiation delivered over 2 days for a total of 800cGy. There was a response in 10 of 11 cats. The overall median survival duration was 355 days while the median survival duration after radiation therapy was 214 days. Cats that were anemic tended to have lower overall survival rates, even with radiation therapy. Acute effects of radiation were not noted, except one cat that had a limited duration of loss of appetite. The results indicated that at this dose of radiation, abdominal radiation therapy in the rescue setting for feline gastrointestinal lymphoma appears well tolerated. [VT]

Related articles: 
Gieger T: Alimentary lymphoma in cats and dogs, Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 41:419, 2011.

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Parshley DL, Larue SM, Kitchell B et al: Abdominal irradiation as a rescue therapy for feline gastrointestinal lymphoma: a retrospective study of 11 cats (2001-2008), J Feline Medicine Surg 13:63, 2011.

The first line of therapy for feline lymphoma has been primarily chemotherapy. Cats will respond well to chemotherapy protocols, with response rates ranging between 50 and 75% depending on protocol, tumor grade, and location of the lymphoma. Radiation therapy in feline lymphoma is mostly used in nasal, extranodal, or single node lymphoma. The authors conducted a retrospective study of the medical records of 11 cats with gastrointestinal lymphoma. All the cats had relapsed or resistant lymphoma. These patients were evaluated to determine the efficacy of radiation therapy when used in a rescue therapy setting. The population distribution between males and females was a ratio of 2.3:1. The most common clinical sign noted prior to diagnosis was weight loss. The cats received two fractions of radiation delivered over 2 days for a total of 800cGy. There was a response in 10 of 11 cats. The overall median survival duration was 355 days while the median survival duration after radiation therapy was 214 days. Cats that were anemic tended to have lower overall survival rates, even with radiation therapy. Acute effects of radiation were not noted, except one cat that had a limited duration of loss of appetite. The results indicated that at this dose of radiation, abdominal radiation therapy in the rescue setting for feline gastrointestinal lymphoma appears well tolerated. [VT]

Related articles: 
Gieger T: Alimentary lymphoma in cats and dogs, Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 41:419, 2011.

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FeLV and Feline Lymphoma

Weiss ATA, Klopfleisch R, Gruber AD: Prevalence of feline leukaemia provirus DNA in feline lymphomas, Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery 12: 929, 2010.

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is an important pathogen of cats. Since development of screening assays and vaccines for FeLV, the prevalence of persistently infected cats has decreased. Recent studies have shown that the FeLV genetic material remains in cats exposed to the virus, though viral replication may not occur. Concern exists that this persistent viral DNA may contribute to development of lymphoma in cats. To determine if an association exists, samples from 50 cases of lymphoma were tested for the presence of FeLV. Viral DNA was detected in a high percentage of all types of feline lymphomas by these investigators. Thus, though the prevalence of FeLV infection as well as lymphoma has decreased with the development of control measures for FeLV, a significant portion of feline lymphomas appear to involve FeLV genetic material. [MK]

Related articles:

Stutzer B, Simon K, Lutz H et al: Incidence of persistent viraemia and latent feline leukaemia virus infection in cats with lymphoma, Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery 13: 81, 2011.

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Weiss ATA, Klopfleisch R, Gruber AD: Prevalence of feline leukaemia provirus DNA in feline lymphomas, Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery 12: 929, 2010.

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is an important pathogen of cats. Since development of screening assays and vaccines for FeLV, the prevalence of persistently infected cats has decreased. Recent studies have shown that the FeLV genetic material remains in cats exposed to the virus, though viral replication may not occur. Concern exists that this persistent viral DNA may contribute to development of lymphoma in cats. To determine if an association exists, samples from 50 cases of lymphoma were tested for the presence of FeLV. Viral DNA was detected in a high percentage of all types of feline lymphomas by these investigators. Thus, though the prevalence of FeLV infection as well as lymphoma has decreased with the development of control measures for FeLV, a significant portion of feline lymphomas appear to involve FeLV genetic material. [MK]

Related articles:

Stutzer B, Simon K, Lutz H et al: Incidence of persistent viraemia and latent feline leukaemia virus infection in cats with lymphoma, Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery 13: 81, 2011.

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Feline Intestinal Cancer

Rissetto K, Villamil JA, Selting KA et al: Recent trends in feline intestinal neoplasia: an epidemiologic study of 1,129 cases in the veterinary medical database from 1964 to 2004, J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 47:28, 2011.

Data entered into the Veterinary Medical Database (VMDB) concerning 1,129 feline intestinal tumor patients from 1964 to 2004 was evaluated for inclusion in a large retrospective epidemiologic study. Cases were analyzed by breed, age, year of diagnosis, tumor type, and tumor location. Feline intestinal tumors are relatively uncommon and the incidence of all intestinal tumors for this 40-year time period was 0.4%. The authors found the most common tumor was lymphoma and the most common non-lymphoid tumor was adenocarcinoma (ACA). Small intestinal tumors predominated, with lymphoma being the most common intestinal tumor. This study determined that the large intestine is the most common location for intestinal ACA and that ACA is the most common tumor occurring in the large intestine. The diagnosis of intestinal neoplasia, especially intestinal lymphoma, appears to be increasing in the feline population in the United States. This may be due to improvements in veterinary care and diagnostic capabilities in recent years. The study did note that two high-risk variables for developing intestinal neoplasia are the Siamese breed and increasing age after 7 years. These epidemiological findings may aid veterinarians when recommending diagnostic tests and considering differential diagnoses in patients presenting with gastrointestinal and non-specific signs. [VT]

Related articles:

Stein TJ, Pellin M, Steinberg H et al: Treatment of feline gastrointestinal small-cell lymphoma with chlorambucil and glucocorticoids, J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 46:413, 2010.

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Rissetto K, Villamil JA, Selting KA et al: Recent trends in feline intestinal neoplasia: an epidemiologic study of 1,129 cases in the veterinary medical database from 1964 to 2004, J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 47:28, 2011.

Data entered into the Veterinary Medical Database (VMDB) concerning 1,129 feline intestinal tumor patients from 1964 to 2004 was evaluated for inclusion in a large retrospective epidemiologic study. Cases were analyzed by breed, age, year of diagnosis, tumor type, and tumor location. Feline intestinal tumors are relatively uncommon and the incidence of all intestinal tumors for this 40-year time period was 0.4%. The authors found the most common tumor was lymphoma and the most common non-lymphoid tumor was adenocarcinoma (ACA). Small intestinal tumors predominated, with lymphoma being the most common intestinal tumor. This study determined that the large intestine is the most common location for intestinal ACA and that ACA is the most common tumor occurring in the large intestine. The diagnosis of intestinal neoplasia, especially intestinal lymphoma, appears to be increasing in the feline population in the United States. This may be due to improvements in veterinary care and diagnostic capabilities in recent years. The study did note that two high-risk variables for developing intestinal neoplasia are the Siamese breed and increasing age after 7 years. These epidemiological findings may aid veterinarians when recommending diagnostic tests and considering differential diagnoses in patients presenting with gastrointestinal and non-specific signs. [VT]

Related articles:

Stein TJ, Pellin M, Steinberg H et al: Treatment of feline gastrointestinal small-cell lymphoma with chlorambucil and glucocorticoids, J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 46:413, 2010.

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

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Treatment of Lymphoma in Cats

Stein TJ, Pellin M, Steinberg H et al: Treatment of feline gastrointestinal small-cell lymphoma with chlorambucil and glucocorticoids, J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 46:413, 2010. 

Gastrointestinal lymphoma is the most commonly diagnosed form of lymphoma in cats. There are two distinct forms based on size of the neoplastic lymphocytes, large- and small-cell lymphoma. This was a retrospective study of 28 cats diagnosed in large part via full-thickness intestinal biopsies with small-cell lymphoma. The majority of cases were CD3+ (T cell marker) and many exhibited epithelioltropism. In this study, all cats were started on chlorambucil at a dose of 20 mg/m² every 2 weeks. Additionally, 17 of the 28 cats (60%) received prednisone or prednisolone at 2 mg/kg once daily for one week. All cats had their prednisone/prednisolone dosages tapered to 1 mg/kg orally every other day until disease relapse or progression of disease. Treatment with chlorambucil and a glucocorticoid resulted in clinical remission in 96% of cats, with a median duration of 786 days for the first clinical response. Seven cats relapsed from remission and were treated with a rescue protocol of cyclophosphamide and glucocorticoids. The response rate was 100% for the rescue protocol. The authors did find it striking that four (14%) of the 28 cats developed a second malignancy during their course of treatment. [VT]

Related articles:

Lingard AE, Briscoe K, Beatty JA et al: Low-grade alimentary lymphoma: clinicopathological findings and response to treatment in 17 cases, J Feline Med Surg 11:692, 2009.

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Stein TJ, Pellin M, Steinberg H et al: Treatment of feline gastrointestinal small-cell lymphoma with chlorambucil and glucocorticoids, J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 46:413, 2010. 

Gastrointestinal lymphoma is the most commonly diagnosed form of lymphoma in cats. There are two distinct forms based on size of the neoplastic lymphocytes, large- and small-cell lymphoma. This was a retrospective study of 28 cats diagnosed in large part via full-thickness intestinal biopsies with small-cell lymphoma. The majority of cases were CD3+ (T cell marker) and many exhibited epithelioltropism. In this study, all cats were started on chlorambucil at a dose of 20 mg/m² every 2 weeks. Additionally, 17 of the 28 cats (60%) received prednisone or prednisolone at 2 mg/kg once daily for one week. All cats had their prednisone/prednisolone dosages tapered to 1 mg/kg orally every other day until disease relapse or progression of disease. Treatment with chlorambucil and a glucocorticoid resulted in clinical remission in 96% of cats, with a median duration of 786 days for the first clinical response. Seven cats relapsed from remission and were treated with a rescue protocol of cyclophosphamide and glucocorticoids. The response rate was 100% for the rescue protocol. The authors did find it striking that four (14%) of the 28 cats developed a second malignancy during their course of treatment. [VT]

Related articles:

Lingard AE, Briscoe K, Beatty JA et al: Low-grade alimentary lymphoma: clinicopathological findings and response to treatment in 17 cases, J Feline Med Surg 11:692, 2009.

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Diagnosis of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Zwingenberger AL, Marks SL, Baker TW et al: Ultrasonographic evaluation of the muscularis propria in cats with diffuse small intestinal lymphoma or inflammatory bowel disease, J Vet Intern Med, 2010.

The objective of this study was to investigate the association of imaging biomarkers with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and lymphoma in cats. Thickening of the muscularis propria layer of the small intestine and lymphadenopathy have been ultrasound pattern findings associated with these conditions in cats. The study included 142 cats with a histological diagnosis of normal small intestine (SI), lymphoma, or IBD determined by full-thickness biopsy. All the cases had an ultrasonographic examination within 28 days before biopsy. Of all the samples, 56 were classified as normal SI, 62 as lymphoma, and 24 as IBD. Previously, 10 samples classified as IBD were reclassified as lymphoma after immunohistochemistry and clonality assays. Cats with lymphoma were found to be significantly older than those with IBD or normal SI. Cats with thickening of the muscularis propria detected by ultrasound were more likely to have lymphoma than normal SI cats and those with IBD. Cats with ultrasound evidence of lymphadenopathy were more likely to have a diagnosis of lymphoma or IBD than normal SI. 56 of the 62 cats were diagnosed with lymphoma of the diffuse T-cell type. The results indicate that lymphoma or IBD could be misclassified if immunohistochemical and clonality assays were not performed on biopsy samples. Also, older cats with muscularis layer thickening are more likely to have T-cell lymphoma than IBD. Lymphadenopathy is associated with lymphoma or IBD. [VT]

Related articles:
Kleinschmidt S, Harder J, Nolte I et al: Chronic inflammatory and non-inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract in cats: diagnostic advantages of full-thickness intestinal and extraintestinal biopsies, J Feline Med Surg 12:97, 2010.

Evans SE, Bonczynski JJ, Broussard JD et al: Comparison of endoscopic and full-thickness biopsy specimens for diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease and alimentary tract lymphoma in cats, J Am Vet Med Assoc 229:1447, 2006.

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Zwingenberger AL, Marks SL, Baker TW et al: Ultrasonographic evaluation of the muscularis propria in cats with diffuse small intestinal lymphoma or inflammatory bowel disease, J Vet Intern Med, 2010.

The objective of this study was to investigate the association of imaging biomarkers with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and lymphoma in cats. Thickening of the muscularis propria layer of the small intestine and lymphadenopathy have been ultrasound pattern findings associated with these conditions in cats. The study included 142 cats with a histological diagnosis of normal small intestine (SI), lymphoma, or IBD determined by full-thickness biopsy. All the cases had an ultrasonographic examination within 28 days before biopsy. Of all the samples, 56 were classified as normal SI, 62 as lymphoma, and 24 as IBD. Previously, 10 samples classified as IBD were reclassified as lymphoma after immunohistochemistry and clonality assays. Cats with lymphoma were found to be significantly older than those with IBD or normal SI. Cats with thickening of the muscularis propria detected by ultrasound were more likely to have lymphoma than normal SI cats and those with IBD. Cats with ultrasound evidence of lymphadenopathy were more likely to have a diagnosis of lymphoma or IBD than normal SI. 56 of the 62 cats were diagnosed with lymphoma of the diffuse T-cell type. The results indicate that lymphoma or IBD could be misclassified if immunohistochemical and clonality assays were not performed on biopsy samples. Also, older cats with muscularis layer thickening are more likely to have T-cell lymphoma than IBD. Lymphadenopathy is associated with lymphoma or IBD. [VT]

Related articles:
Kleinschmidt S, Harder J, Nolte I et al: Chronic inflammatory and non-inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract in cats: diagnostic advantages of full-thickness intestinal and extraintestinal biopsies, J Feline Med Surg 12:97, 2010.

Evans SE, Bonczynski JJ, Broussard JD et al: Comparison of endoscopic and full-thickness biopsy specimens for diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease and alimentary tract lymphoma in cats, J Am Vet Med Assoc 229:1447, 2006.

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Intestinal Lymphoma in Cats

Lingard AE, Briscoe K, Beatty JA, et al. Low-grade alimentary lymphoma: clinicopathological findings and response to treatment in 17 cases. J Feline Med Surg 2009; 11: 692-700.

Alimentary lymphoma is the most common anatomic form of lymphoma in the cats. Seventeen cats in this study were diagnosed with low-grade alimentary lymphoma (LGAL) by immunological and immunohistochemical evaluation of full-thickness biopsies collected from multiple gastrointestinal sites during exploratory laparotomy. The most common clinical signs were weight loss, inappetence, vomiting or diarrhea, vomiting and diarrhea, lethargy, and polyphagia. Vomiting and/or diarrhea were considered chronic in 11 of 15 cats. Abdominal palpation was abnormal in 12 cats. Mature neutrophilia and anemia were the most common hematological abnormalities. Serum albumin was normal in all cats tested. The most common ultrasonographic finding was normal or increased intestinal wall thickness with preservation of layering. LGAL is typically a diffuse or multifocal disease and the ileum and jejenum were most commonly affected. The cats were put on three chemotherapeutic protocols, the majority being given the oral chemotherapeutic regimen of prednisolone and high-dose pulse chlorambucil. Thirteen of the 17 cats (76%) had complete clinical remission with a median remission time of 18.9 months. Cats that were lethargic were less likely to achieve complete remission. The prognosis for cats with LGAL treated with oral prednisolone in combination with high-dose pulse chlorambucil is good to excellent. [VT]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Wilson HM. Feline alimentary lymphoma: demystifying the enigma. Top Companion Anim Med 2008; 23: 177-84.
>> PubMed Abstract

Waly NE, Gruffydd-Jones TJ, Stokes CR, Day MJ. Immunohistochemical diagnosis of alimentary lymphomas and severe intestinal inflammation in cats. J Comp Pathol 2005; 133: 253-60.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Lingard AE, Briscoe K, Beatty JA, et al. Low-grade alimentary lymphoma: clinicopathological findings and response to treatment in 17 cases. J Feline Med Surg 2009; 11: 692-700.

Alimentary lymphoma is the most common anatomic form of lymphoma in the cats. Seventeen cats in this study were diagnosed with low-grade alimentary lymphoma (LGAL) by immunological and immunohistochemical evaluation of full-thickness biopsies collected from multiple gastrointestinal sites during exploratory laparotomy. The most common clinical signs were weight loss, inappetence, vomiting or diarrhea, vomiting and diarrhea, lethargy, and polyphagia. Vomiting and/or diarrhea were considered chronic in 11 of 15 cats. Abdominal palpation was abnormal in 12 cats. Mature neutrophilia and anemia were the most common hematological abnormalities. Serum albumin was normal in all cats tested. The most common ultrasonographic finding was normal or increased intestinal wall thickness with preservation of layering. LGAL is typically a diffuse or multifocal disease and the ileum and jejenum were most commonly affected. The cats were put on three chemotherapeutic protocols, the majority being given the oral chemotherapeutic regimen of prednisolone and high-dose pulse chlorambucil. Thirteen of the 17 cats (76%) had complete clinical remission with a median remission time of 18.9 months. Cats that were lethargic were less likely to achieve complete remission. The prognosis for cats with LGAL treated with oral prednisolone in combination with high-dose pulse chlorambucil is good to excellent. [VT]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Wilson HM. Feline alimentary lymphoma: demystifying the enigma. Top Companion Anim Med 2008; 23: 177-84.
>> PubMed Abstract

Waly NE, Gruffydd-Jones TJ, Stokes CR, Day MJ. Immunohistochemical diagnosis of alimentary lymphomas and severe intestinal inflammation in cats. J Comp Pathol 2005; 133: 253-60.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Nasal Lymphoma in Cats

Haney, S. M., L. Beaver, et al. (2009). "Survival analysis of 97 cats with nasal lymphoma: a multi-institutional retrospective study (1986-2006)." J Vet Intern Med 23(2): 287-294.

While lymphoma is one of the most common cancer types affecting cats, nasal lymphoma is relatively rare. This retrospective study examined survival times in cats given different therapies, and evaluated response to treatment, duration of response, and prognostic factors. Records of 97 cats from various veterinary centers in the United States diagnosed with nasal lymphoma were analyzed. Two methods of survival analysis were used. In the first method, only deaths caused by progressive lymphoma were counted. The median survival time for these cats, regardless of treatment modality, was 536 days. In the second method, all deaths regardless of cause were counted. The median survival time for these cats was 172 days. There were no statistical differences in survival times based on treatment modality (radiation therapy alone, chemotherapy alone, radiation therapy plus chemotherapy). The results must be interpreted with caution, as many confounding variables were present. The investigators did note that inclusion of radiation therapy was critical to controlling the disease at the site (nasal cavity), and a higher dose of radiation may increase survival time. Anemia appeared to be an indicator of poor prognosis. [MK]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Little, L., R. Patel, et al. (2007). "Nasal and nasopharyngeal lymphoma in cats: 50 cases (1989-2005)." Vet Pathol 44(6): 885-92.
>> PubMed Abstract

Sfiligoi, G., A. P. Theon, et al. (2007). "Response of nineteen cats with nasal lymphoma to radiation therapy and chemotherapy." Vet Radiol Ultrasound 48(4): 388-93.
>> PubMed Abstract

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Haney, S. M., L. Beaver, et al. (2009). "Survival analysis of 97 cats with nasal lymphoma: a multi-institutional retrospective study (1986-2006)." J Vet Intern Med 23(2): 287-294.

While lymphoma is one of the most common cancer types affecting cats, nasal lymphoma is relatively rare. This retrospective study examined survival times in cats given different therapies, and evaluated response to treatment, duration of response, and prognostic factors. Records of 97 cats from various veterinary centers in the United States diagnosed with nasal lymphoma were analyzed. Two methods of survival analysis were used. In the first method, only deaths caused by progressive lymphoma were counted. The median survival time for these cats, regardless of treatment modality, was 536 days. In the second method, all deaths regardless of cause were counted. The median survival time for these cats was 172 days. There were no statistical differences in survival times based on treatment modality (radiation therapy alone, chemotherapy alone, radiation therapy plus chemotherapy). The results must be interpreted with caution, as many confounding variables were present. The investigators did note that inclusion of radiation therapy was critical to controlling the disease at the site (nasal cavity), and a higher dose of radiation may increase survival time. Anemia appeared to be an indicator of poor prognosis. [MK]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Little, L., R. Patel, et al. (2007). "Nasal and nasopharyngeal lymphoma in cats: 50 cases (1989-2005)." Vet Pathol 44(6): 885-92.
>> PubMed Abstract

Sfiligoi, G., A. P. Theon, et al. (2007). "Response of nineteen cats with nasal lymphoma to radiation therapy and chemotherapy." Vet Radiol Ultrasound 48(4): 388-93.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Endoscopy for Diagnosis of Gastrointestinal Disease in Cats

Willard, M. D., J. Mansell, et al. (2008). "Effect of sample quality on the sensitivity of endoscopic biopsy for detecting gastric and duodenal lesions in dogs and cats." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 22(5): 1084-1089.

A common diagnostic procedure for assessment of chronic gastrointestinal disease in cats is endoscopy with biopsies of gastrointestinal mucosa. Previous studies have highlighted the difficulty in obtaining quality biopsy samples via endoscopy. In this study, the researchers attempted to address two issues: whether the ability to demonstrate a histologic lesion in the stomach or duodenum is affected by sample quality, and whether more samples are needed to find a lesion when tissue specimens are of poor quality. The researchers evaluated tissues obtained via endoscopy from 51 cats (and 99 dogs) that were examined as clinical cases at 8 veterinary institutions or practices in 5 different countries. The results showed that the quality of endoscopically obtained tissue samples has a profound effect on their sensitivity for identifying certain lesions, and there are differences between biopsies of canine and feline tissues. Multiple samples need to be taken to ensure that a sufficient number of adequate tissue samples are obtained during endoscopic procedures. The old assumption that a single adequate biopsy sample is sufficient for diagnosis was shown to be incorrect. The study suggests that a goal of obtaining 6 marginal or adequate feline duodenal or gastric samples will be sufficient to give 99% confidence of finding any lesions present.
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Day, M. J., T. Bilzer, et al. (2008). "Histopathological standards for the diagnosis of gastrointestinal inflammation in endoscopic biopsy samples from the dog and cat: a report from the World Small Animal Veterinary Association Gastrointestinal Standardization Group." J Comp Pathol 138 Suppl 1: S1-43.
>> PubMed Abstract

Evans, S. E., J. J. Bonczynski, et al. (2006). "Comparison of endoscopic and full-thickness biopsy specimens for diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease and alimentary tract lymphoma in cats." J Am Vet Med Assoc 229(9): 1447-50.
>> PubMed Abstract

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Willard, M. D., J. Mansell, et al. (2008). "Effect of sample quality on the sensitivity of endoscopic biopsy for detecting gastric and duodenal lesions in dogs and cats." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 22(5): 1084-1089.

A common diagnostic procedure for assessment of chronic gastrointestinal disease in cats is endoscopy with biopsies of gastrointestinal mucosa. Previous studies have highlighted the difficulty in obtaining quality biopsy samples via endoscopy. In this study, the researchers attempted to address two issues: whether the ability to demonstrate a histologic lesion in the stomach or duodenum is affected by sample quality, and whether more samples are needed to find a lesion when tissue specimens are of poor quality. The researchers evaluated tissues obtained via endoscopy from 51 cats (and 99 dogs) that were examined as clinical cases at 8 veterinary institutions or practices in 5 different countries. The results showed that the quality of endoscopically obtained tissue samples has a profound effect on their sensitivity for identifying certain lesions, and there are differences between biopsies of canine and feline tissues. Multiple samples need to be taken to ensure that a sufficient number of adequate tissue samples are obtained during endoscopic procedures. The old assumption that a single adequate biopsy sample is sufficient for diagnosis was shown to be incorrect. The study suggests that a goal of obtaining 6 marginal or adequate feline duodenal or gastric samples will be sufficient to give 99% confidence of finding any lesions present.
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Day, M. J., T. Bilzer, et al. (2008). "Histopathological standards for the diagnosis of gastrointestinal inflammation in endoscopic biopsy samples from the dog and cat: a report from the World Small Animal Veterinary Association Gastrointestinal Standardization Group." J Comp Pathol 138 Suppl 1: S1-43.
>> PubMed Abstract

Evans, S. E., J. J. Bonczynski, et al. (2006). "Comparison of endoscopic and full-thickness biopsy specimens for diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease and alimentary tract lymphoma in cats." J Am Vet Med Assoc 229(9): 1447-50.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Pulmonary Fibrosis in a Cat Receiving Lomustine

Skorupski, K. A., A. C. Durham, et al. (2008). "Pulmonary fibrosis after high cumulative dose nitrosourea chemotherapy in a cat." Veterinary and Comparative Oncology 6(2): 120-125.

Lomustine (CCNU) is an alkylating nitrosourea chemotherapy drug. In feline medicine, it has been used for cutaneous lymphoma and mast cell tumors. Neutropenia and thrombocytopenia are known complications, so close monitoring of blood cell parameters is necessary during treatment. In this case report, a cat diagnosed with alimentary lymphoma did poorly on several chemotherapeutic regimes. However, a long-term remission was achieved with lomustine and corticosteroid therapy. After 12 months of therapy, the cat died after an acute episode of respiratory distress. On post mortem examination, severe diffuse pulmonary fibrosis was identified. The cat had no previous history of pulmonary disease. This is the first report of pulmonary fibrosis following high cumulative dose nitrosourea chemotherapy in a cat.
>> Article Abstract

Related articles
Blog post: Lomustine for mast cell tumors in cats

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Skorupski, K. A., A. C. Durham, et al. (2008). "Pulmonary fibrosis after high cumulative dose nitrosourea chemotherapy in a cat." Veterinary and Comparative Oncology 6(2): 120-125.

Lomustine (CCNU) is an alkylating nitrosourea chemotherapy drug. In feline medicine, it has been used for cutaneous lymphoma and mast cell tumors. Neutropenia and thrombocytopenia are known complications, so close monitoring of blood cell parameters is necessary during treatment. In this case report, a cat diagnosed with alimentary lymphoma did poorly on several chemotherapeutic regimes. However, a long-term remission was achieved with lomustine and corticosteroid therapy. After 12 months of therapy, the cat died after an acute episode of respiratory distress. On post mortem examination, severe diffuse pulmonary fibrosis was identified. The cat had no previous history of pulmonary disease. This is the first report of pulmonary fibrosis following high cumulative dose nitrosourea chemotherapy in a cat.
>> Article Abstract

Related articles
Blog post: Lomustine for mast cell tumors in cats

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Feline Large Granular Lymphocyte Lymphoma

Krick, E. L., L. Little, et al. (2008). "Description of clinical and pathological findings, treatment and outcome of feline large granular lymphocyte lymphoma (1996-2004)." Veterinary and Comparative Oncology 6(2): 102-110.

Large granular lymphocytes (LGL) can be found in the blood of healthy animals and usually constitute 10% or less of total circulating lymphocytes. Large granular lymphosarcoma/leukemia is a neoplastic disease of lymphocytes rarely seen in cats and dogs and is a distinct variation of lymphoma. Limited information exists regarding pathological and immunohistochemical descriptions, clinical findings, treatment and survival times in cats. Medical records of 45 cats with LGL lymphoma were retrospectively evaluated. The most common clinical signs were decreased appetite, anorexia, weight loss, lethargy, and vomiting. The mesenteric lymph nodes and small intestine were the most commonly affected organs. One complete response and six partial responses were noted in the 23 cats that received chemotherapy as their initial treatment. Median survival time for cats that were treated was 57 days. Based on these results, feline LGL lymphoma appears to be minimally responsive to chemotherapy and is associated with a grave prognosis.
>> Journal abstract

Related articles:
Roccabianca, P., W. Vernau, et al. (2006). "Feline large granular lymphocyte (LGL) lymphoma with secondary leukemia: primary intestinal origin with predominance of a CD3/CD8(alpha)(alpha) phenotype." Vet Pathol 43(1): 15-28.
>> PubMed abstract and free, full text article

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Krick, E. L., L. Little, et al. (2008). "Description of clinical and pathological findings, treatment and outcome of feline large granular lymphocyte lymphoma (1996-2004)." Veterinary and Comparative Oncology 6(2): 102-110.

Large granular lymphocytes (LGL) can be found in the blood of healthy animals and usually constitute 10% or less of total circulating lymphocytes. Large granular lymphosarcoma/leukemia is a neoplastic disease of lymphocytes rarely seen in cats and dogs and is a distinct variation of lymphoma. Limited information exists regarding pathological and immunohistochemical descriptions, clinical findings, treatment and survival times in cats. Medical records of 45 cats with LGL lymphoma were retrospectively evaluated. The most common clinical signs were decreased appetite, anorexia, weight loss, lethargy, and vomiting. The mesenteric lymph nodes and small intestine were the most commonly affected organs. One complete response and six partial responses were noted in the 23 cats that received chemotherapy as their initial treatment. Median survival time for cats that were treated was 57 days. Based on these results, feline LGL lymphoma appears to be minimally responsive to chemotherapy and is associated with a grave prognosis.
>> Journal abstract

Related articles:
Roccabianca, P., W. Vernau, et al. (2006). "Feline large granular lymphocyte (LGL) lymphoma with secondary leukemia: primary intestinal origin with predominance of a CD3/CD8(alpha)(alpha) phenotype." Vet Pathol 43(1): 15-28.
>> PubMed abstract and free, full text article

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Helicobacter and Lymphoma in Cats

Bridgeford, E. C., R. P. Marini, et al. (2008). "Gastric Helicobacter species as a cause of feline gastric lymphoma: A viable hypothesis." Vet Immunol Immunopathol 123(1-2): 106-13.

In humans and other animals, gastric Helicobacter spp. bacteria are associated with chronic inflammation. In this study, the relationship between Helicobacter heilmannii and gastric lymphoma in cats was examined. Gastric specimens were collected via biopsy or at necropsy from 47 pet cats with clinical signs of gastrointestinal disease, such as vomiting and anorexia. The specimens were characterized as gastritis (14/47), lymphoma (31/47), or normal (2/47). Staining for Helicobacter organisms was positive in 29 of the specimens. These tissues were then further examined to determine the Helicobacter species involved. Of the cats characterized as having lymphoblastic lymphoma, 13/17 were positive for H. heilmannii. The association between gastric lymphoma in cats and H. heilmannii infection requires further investigation, especially to evaluate the frequency and strain distribution of H. heilmanni in both well cats and those with gastric lymphoma using prospective studies.
>> PubMed abstract

Related articles:
Priestnall, S. L., B. Wiinberg, et al. (2004). "Evaluation of "Helicobacter heilmannii" subtypes in the gastric mucosas of cats and dogs." J Clin Microbiol 42(5): 2144-51.
>> Free full text article

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Bridgeford, E. C., R. P. Marini, et al. (2008). "Gastric Helicobacter species as a cause of feline gastric lymphoma: A viable hypothesis." Vet Immunol Immunopathol 123(1-2): 106-13.

In humans and other animals, gastric Helicobacter spp. bacteria are associated with chronic inflammation. In this study, the relationship between Helicobacter heilmannii and gastric lymphoma in cats was examined. Gastric specimens were collected via biopsy or at necropsy from 47 pet cats with clinical signs of gastrointestinal disease, such as vomiting and anorexia. The specimens were characterized as gastritis (14/47), lymphoma (31/47), or normal (2/47). Staining for Helicobacter organisms was positive in 29 of the specimens. These tissues were then further examined to determine the Helicobacter species involved. Of the cats characterized as having lymphoblastic lymphoma, 13/17 were positive for H. heilmannii. The association between gastric lymphoma in cats and H. heilmannii infection requires further investigation, especially to evaluate the frequency and strain distribution of H. heilmanni in both well cats and those with gastric lymphoma using prospective studies.
>> PubMed abstract

Related articles:
Priestnall, S. L., B. Wiinberg, et al. (2004). "Evaluation of "Helicobacter heilmannii" subtypes in the gastric mucosas of cats and dogs." J Clin Microbiol 42(5): 2144-51.
>> Free full text article

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Quality of Life for Cats Receiving Chemotherapy

Tzannes, S., M. F. Hammond, et al. (2008). "Owners 'perception of their cats' quality of life during COP chemotherapy for lymphoma." J Feline Med Surg 10(1): 73-81.


Lymphoma is one of the most common feline cancers and many owners opt for chemotherapy as a treatment option. Most owners are concerned about quality of life for feline cancer patients, both with and without chemotherapy. Questionnaires on quality of life (QOL) were completed by the owners of 31 cats undergoing treatment for lymphoma between 2002 and 2006. All cats were treated with cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and prednisolone (COP). QOL scores were significantly higher in cats before the onset of cancer than after, but before the start of chemotherapy. During chemotherapy, QOL scores were also lower than before the onset of cancer, but were significantly higher than prior to starting treatment. The majority of cats (87%) experienced adverse effects during treatment. Most pet owners (83%) were happy they treated their cats and most (87%) would treat another cat. The results of this questionnaire survey indicate that COP chemotherapy is well tolerated by cats according to owner perceptions of QOL.
>> PubMed abstract


Related articles:
Teske, E., G. van Straten, et al. (2002). "Chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and prednisone (COP) in cats with malignant lymphoma: new results with an old protocol." J Vet Intern Med 16(2): 179-186.
>> PubMed abstract


More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation

Tzannes, S., M. F. Hammond, et al. (2008). "Owners 'perception of their cats' quality of life during COP chemotherapy for lymphoma." J Feline Med Surg 10(1): 73-81.


Lymphoma is one of the most common feline cancers and many owners opt for chemotherapy as a treatment option. Most owners are concerned about quality of life for feline cancer patients, both with and without chemotherapy. Questionnaires on quality of life (QOL) were completed by the owners of 31 cats undergoing treatment for lymphoma between 2002 and 2006. All cats were treated with cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and prednisolone (COP). QOL scores were significantly higher in cats before the onset of cancer than after, but before the start of chemotherapy. During chemotherapy, QOL scores were also lower than before the onset of cancer, but were significantly higher than prior to starting treatment. The majority of cats (87%) experienced adverse effects during treatment. Most pet owners (83%) were happy they treated their cats and most (87%) would treat another cat. The results of this questionnaire survey indicate that COP chemotherapy is well tolerated by cats according to owner perceptions of QOL.
>> PubMed abstract


Related articles:
Teske, E., G. van Straten, et al. (2002). "Chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and prednisone (COP) in cats with malignant lymphoma: new results with an old protocol." J Vet Intern Med 16(2): 179-186.
>> PubMed abstract


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Outcome of Cats with Lymphoma

Kiselow, M. A., K. M. Rassnick, et al. (2008). "Outcome of cats with low-grade lymphocytic lymphoma: 41 cases (1995-2005)." J Am Vet Med Assoc 232(3): 405-10.

This retrospective case series looked at 41 cats with confirmed lymphoma of various organs treated with prednisone and chlorambucil. Common clinical signs included vomiting, weight loss, anorexia, and diarrhea. The majority of cats tested had low serum cobalamin levels. Most cats (68%) had lymphoma confined to the gastrointestinal tract. A complete response to treatment was achieved in 58% of cats, and 39% achieved a partial response. Overall median survival time was 704 days. This study shows that most cats diagnosed with lymphocytic lymphoma will respond to treatment with prednisone and chlorambucil.
>> PubMed abstract

Related articles:
Hadden, A. G., S. M. Cotter, et al. (2008). "Efficacy and Toxicosis of VELCAP-C Treatment of Lymphoma in Cats." J Vet Intern Med 22(1): 153-7.
>> PubMed abstract

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Kiselow, M. A., K. M. Rassnick, et al. (2008). "Outcome of cats with low-grade lymphocytic lymphoma: 41 cases (1995-2005)." J Am Vet Med Assoc 232(3): 405-10.

This retrospective case series looked at 41 cats with confirmed lymphoma of various organs treated with prednisone and chlorambucil. Common clinical signs included vomiting, weight loss, anorexia, and diarrhea. The majority of cats tested had low serum cobalamin levels. Most cats (68%) had lymphoma confined to the gastrointestinal tract. A complete response to treatment was achieved in 58% of cats, and 39% achieved a partial response. Overall median survival time was 704 days. This study shows that most cats diagnosed with lymphocytic lymphoma will respond to treatment with prednisone and chlorambucil.
>> PubMed abstract

Related articles:
Hadden, A. G., S. M. Cotter, et al. (2008). "Efficacy and Toxicosis of VELCAP-C Treatment of Lymphoma in Cats." J Vet Intern Med 22(1): 153-7.
>> PubMed abstract

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

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