Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Eye side effects after cobalt radiation in 37 dogs and 12 cats
By Pinard, Chantale L et al.·Published in The Canadian veterinary journal = La revue veterinaire canadienne·2012·Department of Clinical Studies, Canada·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Retrospective study and review of ocular radiation side effects following external-beam Cobalt-60 radiation therapy in 37 dogs and 12 cats.
Plain-English summary
A group of 37 dogs and 12 cats that received radiation therapy for cancer developed various eye problems, with conjunctivitis being the most common issue. In dogs, 44% experienced eyelid lesions, while 36% of cats had ulcerative keratitis. Additionally, both species showed signs of dry eyes. These side effects highlight the importance of regular eye check-ups after radiation treatment, especially when the eyes are in the radiation field. Monitoring can help manage these issues effectively.
People also search for: dog eye problems after radiation · cat conjunctivitis treatment · radiation side effects in pets · dog eyelid lesions · cat eye care after cancer treatment
Abstract
This retrospective study evaluated the ocular side effects of cancer-bearing dogs and cats treated with external-beam Cobalt-60 (Co-60) radiation in which one or both orbit(s) were included in the radiation field. A total of 37 dogs and 12 cats presented to the Ontario Veterinary College during the 10-year study period (1999-2009) were evaluated. The radiation protocols ranged from a maximum of 60 Gray (Gy) in 24 fractions for curative intent to a minimum of 8 Gy in 1 fraction for palliative treatment. The main ocular side effect reported in both dogs and cats was conjunctivitis (79% and 55%, respectively). Other common ocular side effects included eyelid lesions in dogs (44%), ulcerative keratitis in cats (36%), and keratoconjunctivitis sicca in both dogs and cats (44% and 27%, respectively). The high incidence of ocular side effects in both patient populations indicates a need for regular ophthalmic examinations as a component of routine follow-up for radiation therapy involving the orbit. Radiation damage to ocular tissues is also reviewed.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23729828/