Our Summary

This research paper discusses the use of a type of radiation therapy known as Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) in treating an uncommon type of tumor called pheochromocytomas in dogs. These tumors normally require surgery for removal, but this can be risky due to the tumor’s ability to unpredictably release a type of hormone (catecholamine) and its tendency to invade into blood vessels and nearby areas. Therefore, SBRT is being considered as a safer alternative to surgery.

In the study, 8 dogs diagnosed with these tumors were treated with SBRT instead of surgery. Before treatment, 3 dogs had internal bleeding and 7 had tumors that invaded into large veins and even into the heart in 3 cases. After SBRT, all the dogs showed improvement, with their symptoms disappearing and the size of the tumors or hormone levels in their urine reducing. No serious complications occurred due to anesthesia, and any side effects from radiation were mild and short-lived. At the time of follow-up (average of 25.8 months later), 5 out of 8 dogs were still alive.

The study concludes that SBRT could be a safer and effective alternative to surgery for treating pheochromocytomas in dogs, especially for those whose tumors cannot be removed by surgery or for owners who are worried about the risks of surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is the Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) and how is it used in treating pheochromocytomas in dogs?
  2. What were the results of the study that used SBRT to treat dogs with pheochromocytomas?
  3. Why is SBRT considered a safer and effective alternative to surgery for treating pheochromocytomas in dogs?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about adrenalectomy is to discuss alternative treatment options, such as Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT), with their healthcare provider. SBRT may be a safer and effective alternative to surgery for certain patients, especially those with high-risk tumors or concerns about surgical risks. It’s important to have an open conversation with your doctor about all available treatment options to determine the best course of action for your individual situation.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended adrenalectomy include those with adrenal tumors, such as pheochromocytomas, aldosteronomas, cortisol-producing adenomas, and adrenal metastases. Adrenalectomy may also be recommended for patients with adrenal hyperplasia, Cushing’s syndrome, Conn’s syndrome, and primary adrenal insufficiency. Additionally, patients with adrenal tumors that are causing symptoms such as hypertension, hyperglycemia, weight gain, and muscle weakness may also be candidates for adrenalectomy.

Timeline

  • Before adrenalectomy:
  1. Patient presents with symptoms such as high blood pressure, headaches, sweating, and palpitations.
  2. Patient undergoes imaging tests such as CT scans or MRIs to diagnose the presence of a tumor on the adrenal gland.
  3. Patient may undergo hormone tests to confirm the presence of a pheochromocytoma.
  4. Patient may be stabilized with medication to control blood pressure before surgery.
  • After adrenalectomy:
  1. Patient undergoes surgery to remove the tumor from the adrenal gland.
  2. Patient may experience a temporary drop in blood pressure after surgery.
  3. Patient is monitored closely for any complications such as bleeding, infection, or adrenal insufficiency.
  4. Patient may need to take hormone replacement therapy if the other adrenal gland is not functioning properly.
  5. Patient undergoes follow-up imaging tests and hormone tests to monitor for any recurrence of the tumor.
  6. Patient may experience long-term improvements in symptoms such as blood pressure control and resolution of other symptoms related to the tumor.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and benefits of undergoing an adrenalectomy for my condition?
  2. Are there any alternative treatment options to surgery, such as radiation therapy?
  3. What is Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) and how does it compare to traditional surgery for treating pheochromocytomas?
  4. What are the success rates and potential side effects of SBRT in treating pheochromocytomas?
  5. How many treatments of SBRT would be needed and what is the expected recovery time?
  6. Will I need to be hospitalized for SBRT treatment or is it done on an outpatient basis?
  7. What is the long-term prognosis for patients who undergo SBRT for pheochromocytomas?
  8. Are there any specific follow-up care or monitoring that I should be aware of after undergoing SBRT?
  9. Are there any clinical trials or research studies investigating the effectiveness of SBRT for pheochromocytomas that I may be eligible for?
  10. How experienced is the medical team in performing SBRT for pheochromocytomas, and what is the success rate of this treatment at this facility?

Reference

Authors: Linder T, Wakamatsu C, Jacovino J, Hsieh YH, Mueller M. Journal: Vet Comp Oncol. 2023 Mar;21(1):45-53. doi: 10.1111/vco.12859. Epub 2022 Oct 7. PMID: 36149359