Canine Osteosarcoma: Contemporary Guidance for Veterinary Practitioners
Osteosarcoma (OSA) remains one of the most challenging cancers in dogs, posing significant clinical dilemmas for veterinarians worldwide. While advances in veterinary oncology continue to evolve, uncertainties and controversies persist in the diagnosis and management of this aggressive disease. A recent initiative has sought to compile contemporary knowledge into a comprehensive, accessible, and referenced guideline document to support veterinary professionals in navigating OSA management.
Primary bone tumors, particularly OSA, are relatively common in dogs. Clinical signs often reflect the tumor’s anatomic location, with sudden-onset lameness being the most frequent presentation. This lameness can sometimes appear to improve temporarily with rest or analgesics, but the underlying disease progresses. At diagnosis, most dogs do not show detectable metastasis; however, without effective therapy, metastasis usually develops within months.
Surgical resection with wide margins remains the cornerstone of local tumor control. Limb amputation is the most common procedure and offers the best outcomes for durable survival. However, not all dogs are suitable candidates for amputation. Anti-metastatic therapy, typically adjuvant chemotherapy, is critical to achieving meaningful long-term benefit.
While limb-sparing surgeries, palliative therapies, and radiotherapy are available, evidence suggests that they generally do not outperform amputation combined with chemotherapy in terms of survival. Radiotherapy has a role in palliative care, helping to manage pain and maintain quality of life. Emerging immunotherapies show promise, with early studies demonstrating positive responses in canine patients, though further research is required to validate these approaches.
This comprehensive guideline aims to provide veterinary practitioners—whether in primary care or referral settings—with a reliable resource to improve understanding of OSA. By consolidating current evidence and expert recommendations, the document seeks to help clinicians offer the most effective strategies to extend both survival and quality of life for dogs affected by this aggressive cancer.
