Doxorubicin in the treatment of salivary gland adenocarcinoma

Abstract

Neoplasms that affect the salivary glands of dogs and cats are extremely rare, with no predilection for race or sex being reported. Clinical signs include an increase in local volume as the most frequent finding, and manifestations as a result of this increase. The definitive diagnosis is made through histopathological examination, but fine needle aspiration cytology is a good diagnostic screening test. Imaging tests such as radiography, ultrasound and computed tomography can assist in staging and therapeutic planning. The most suitable treatment is total surgical resection, which is not always feasible, in which case radiotherapy is the recommended therapy. Chemotherapy studies are very rare in this type of neoplastic disease. The objective of the report was to report the case of a thirteen-year-old canine, with the presence of irregular, firm, partially adherent mass, measuring approximately 8.5 x 7.6 x 4.0 cm, in the submandibular region and evolution of 4 months, already with histopathological diagnosis of salivary gland carcinoma after excisional biopsy. Cervical, abdominal and chest X-ray examinations were performed for general investigation and evaluation of surgical viability. A new surgery was performed, but without information about safety margins due to histopathological examination, and adjuvant chemotherapy with the combination of doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide was recommended. The animal died after four sessions showing signs of tumor recurrence. Literature data related to chemotherapy treatment for salivary gland neoplasms are still scarce and further studies are needed.