The Lab Results are In
Unfortunately they weren’t what we had hoped for.
After culturing the cells in the lab, the good folks at CSU have determined that Buddy has an aggressive form of osteosarcoma. This comes somewhat as a surprise to us, because osteosarcoma is pretty common, and the docs had a very tough time figuring it out by the looks alone.
But the good news is that it doesn’t change our treatment plan as far as the radiation goes. Buddy will be part of a study, “Radiation Therapy With or Without Bisphosphonates For Palliative Treatment of Canine Osteosarcoma” (Say that 3 times fast). We will get him in for his first treatment next week, and he’ll then go back 2 more times over the next month.
What this means is that Buddy will get to keep his leg, but he’ll be pain-free and has a very good prognosis for longer life. This of course won’t cure the cancer (neither does amputation), but it will reduce the chances that the cancer will aggressively spread, and will most-importantly improve the quality of Buddy’s life.
One thing that I didn’t realize is that the study itself is directly related to treating bone cancers in human patients as well, so Buddy will actually be helping all of us as well!
April 15th, 2010 at 7:28 pm
We are so sorry about the lab results.
It sounds like the folks at CSU are extremly talented and doing the best they can for Buddy. We have read a ton about CSU from others that have had treatment there and I would say your in for some great care from some very caring people.
Shelby, the P.P.
April 15th, 2010 at 9:25 pm
We’re also so sorry about the lab results. We’re keeping fingers and paws crossed that all goes well with the radiation treatment (I can’t type it once, let alone say it 3 times fast!) and that Buddy shows everyone what a star he is! And how awesome that his treatment will help others, too!
Sending lots of hugs,
Holly and Holly’s mom
April 15th, 2010 at 11:05 pm
Oh Buddy! I sure had my hopes up for the fungus. But it’s okay. You are in good paws!
With your help to humans in this new treatment maybe they’ll name a wing of a hospital after you! I know you’ll be a super hero because you already are!
Comet