Stephen J. Withrow1, DVM; Ross M. Wilkins2, MD
Abstract
Osteosarcoma in companion animals is almost identical to the same disease in people. Research in basic cancer biology and treatment is readily translational across species lines. Examples of this cross talk are presented in this paper based on the parallel careers of two musculoskeletal oncology surgeons (one DVM and one MD). Dogs provide a relevant model that is 10 times more prevalent than the corresponding human condition. Advantages to the dog model include spontaneous development, large size, intact immune system, shared genetic aberrations, response to traditional chemotherapies and owner compliance with clinical trials for their pets.