Study Investigators: Dr. Brenda Coomber and Dr. Paul Woods
Study Title: Collection of Biological Specimens from Dogs Scheduled for Biopsy or Surgery for Suspected or Known Cancer
Generously Supported by: PetDx
Piper initially came to OVC for evaluation of an oral mass on the left side of her jaw. During her CT scan, additional masses were reported by her thyroid and pituitary glands and within her left lung lobe. Piper was scheduled for surgery. The biopsy tissues were reviewed by a pathologist at the University of Guelph, Animal Health Laboratory. Piper was diagnosed with two different tumour types: histiocytic sarcoma (in her lung) and ossifying and fibromatous epulis (a benign, non-invasive tumour in her jaw).
Histiocytes are a specialized type of white blood cell. They play an important role in the immune system by helping to get rid of foreign substances and also stimulate other cells of the immune system.
When histiocytes divide uncontrollably, they can develop into histiocytic sarcomas. Because histiocytes are found in lots of different tissues, this disease can occur almost anywhere and spread very quickly. Metastatic sites commonly include the lymph nodes, kidneys, liver and central nervous system.
Samples collected from Piper will be used to help develop a non-invasive test for early cancer detection! This study has been financially supported by PetDx
Unfortunately, Piper recently passed away due to her disease. She will be remembered by our Clinical Trials and Oncology teams as a sweet and happy girl, with a great sense of style, that was a true joy to interact with!
Piper’s family would like to share…“We were terribly sad to say goodbye to Piper but know that with the amazing care and support from OVC, we did all that we could for her. Thank you to the Doctors and staff at OVC performing her surgery and helping use very step along the way, monitoring her health in the 9 wonderful months afterwards that we were able to love her. We were all proud to have Piper participate in this important study and hope it leads to improved diagnosis, treatments and outcomes”.
