National Cancer Institute - Cancer.gov

COTC034: Clinical, Molecular, and immune characterization of naturally occurring osteosarcoma in dogs

Background and Purpose

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the outcomes for dogs with osteosarcoma treated palliatively with standard amputation. No chemotherapy will be administered. Recent data indicates that at least 35% of dogs do not appear to benefit from standard chemotherapy for this disease. To better understand whether chemotherapy is truly beneficial, this trial aims to document the outcomes prospectively and accurately for dogs whose owners have elected to treat only with surgery (amputation).

Study Locations

Participation Criteria

There will be about 120 dogs taking part in this study across North America.

  • Dogs weighing more than 25kg (55 lbs) who have been diagnosed with an osteosarcoma in the leg.
  • Participants cannot have any evidence of metastatic disease or have received prior therapy.

Study Details

  • Before your pet begins the study, your pet will need to have the following tests and/or procedures to find out if he/she can be in the study: bloodwork, urinalysis, chest x-rays, and abdominal ultrasound. If a diagnosis has not been made, additional diagnostic tests such as a fine needle aspirate may be required to determine a diagnosis. These tests are routinely performed prior to considering treatment for osteosarcoma.
  • If the exams, tests, and procedures show that your pet can take part in the study, and you choose to enroll them, then the following will happen as part of the study:
    • Amputation of the affected limb
    • Weeks 3, 9 and 15 evaluations: blood collection, (chest x-rays at week 9 and 15)
    • Every 8 weeks (after week 15 visit): blood and feces collection, recheck chest x-rays, CBC
    • Consent for a necropsy (autopsy, if your pet dies) is required to be eligible for this study

Contact Information

Please contact the nearest study site if you’re interested in seeing if your dog is eligible to participate.