Published results can be found here.

Study Title: Evaluating the Therapeutic Effect of Pamidronate with Bone Resorption Markers and Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry in Canine Appendicular Osteosarcoma

Purpose of the Study: The University of Illinois Cancer Care Clinic is accruing cases for an ongoing partially funded clinical trial involving appendicular osteosarcoma (OSA), by far the most common primary bone tumor in dogs. This trial aims to objectively assess the effectiveness of aminobisphosphonates for the management of bone pain from OSA. Dogs with appendicular OSA meeting study inclusion criteria will be provided FREE aminobisphosphonate every 28 days for palliation of bone pain. The provision of up to three doses of aminobisphosphonate at no cost may serve as a significant financial incentive. Additionally, owners will be compensated in the amount of $300 when returning for the first monthly scheduled recheck appointment, and will be provided free NSAID for their dog.

Inclusion Criteria: The inclusion criteria for the study are as follows:

1. Dogs with suspected* or confirmed appendicular OSA
2. NO prior treatment with radiation therapy, systemic chemotherapy, or bisphosphonates
3. NO concurrent disease(s) that would limit survival
4. NO pathologic fracture of affected limb nor ADVANCED metastatic disease
5. Signed informed client consent

*Dogs with suspected appendicular OSA will be fully worked-up at the University of Illinois Cancer Care Clinic. Once confirmed to have appendicular OSA, the study will provide a $300.00 incentive for entry, as well as, FREE intravenous pamidronate, and free deracoxib. The normal cost of this aminobisphosphonate, for an average dog weighing above 75 pounds, would approximate $900/treatment. Although pamidronate treatment will be provided for free by the study, all initial and follow up diagnostic charges will be the responsibility of pet owners.

Diagnostics, Treatment, and Compensation:

• Diagnostics will include: 1) bloodwork and urinalysis, 2) tumor cytology and histopathology, 3) 3 view thoracic x-rays, 4) primary tumor x-rays, and 5) abdominal ultrasound.
• The study will provide FREE pamidronate for a minimum of 3 treatments.
• Financial compensation of $300.00 at time of first scheduled recheck (day 28).

Visit the University of Illinois Veterinary Teaching Hospital Clinical Trial Announcement page at: http://www.cvm.uiuc.edu/vth/clinical.html