Prognostic Factors for Mammary Carcinoma

This retrospective study examined prognostic factors in dogs with aggressive and metastatic canine mammary inflammatory carcinoma. Forty-three female dogs with mammary inflammatory carcinoma were evaluated from 2003 to 2008 to assess survival times and prognostic factors, including clinical characteristics, treatment, and outcomes. Clinical history, age, sex, body weight, breed, tumor characteristics, lymphadenopathy, coagulation abnormalities, treatment responses, survival times, and radiology results were examined. Primary inflammatory carcinoma was identified in 26 dogs (60%); secondary inflammatory carcinoma (at a previous tumor site) was identified in the remaining 17 dogs (40%). The inguinal region was the most commonly affected site. Metastasis, both local and distant, was identified in a large percentage. Coagulation testing was done in 67% of dogs; 21% had evidence of coagulopathy. Histopathologic testing was performed in all dogs; high-grade anaplastic carcinoma with infiltrating ductal features and dermal invasion was universally identified. Progressive disease was identified in most dogs. The mean survival time for all dogs was 60 days (range, 1–300 days). Dogs with coagulopathies had significantly shorter survival times, while dogs undergoing medical treatment had significantly longer survival times.

COMMENTARY: Early detection of inflammatory carcinoma via histopathologic testing is imperative when managing this extremely aggressive form of cancer. Aggressive treatment with surgery and chemotherapy seems to provide a survival benefit; however, such therapy is not recommended for the many patients with advanced disease. For these patients, a combination of piroxicam, tramadol, and antibiotics may improve quality of life for a few months before euthanasia secondary to progressive disease.

Prognostic factors for dogs with mammary inflammatory carcinoma: 43 cases (2003–2008). Marconato L, Romanelli G, Stefanello D. JAVMA 235:967-972, 2009.