Guide to radiation therapy use in companion animals

In Pract. Apr 2022;44(3):124-140. 13 Refs

James Elliott¹

¹ Southfields Veterinary Specialists, Basildon, Essex SS15 6TP, UK.

Author Abstract

Background: Radiation therapy (RT) is an important component of a multimodality approach to treating cancer in companion animals. Many owners that receive a cancer diagnosis for their pet never get to consult with a veterinary oncologist, and so it is important that clinicians involved in cancer diagnosis or treatment (whether a general practitioner, internal medicine clinician, surgical specialist or neurologist) have a basic understanding of the equipment used, the basic mechanism of action, the indications, as well as the expected side effects of RT.

Aim of the article: This article provides an updated review of veterinary RT. This is particularly timely, given the current investment in RT facilities in the UK, which will revolutionise the incorporation of RT into veterinary medicine in the near future.

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