Veterinarians at Colorado State University are currently recruiting dogs with pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism for a study to evaluate the efficacy of stereotactic radiation therapy (SRT) for the treatment of pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism (PDH). Stereotactic radiation therapy is a very promising new treatment option for canine pituitary tumors. This technique delivers a highly focused dose of radiation to the tumor, allowing for fewer fractions of treatment and less radiation of surrounding tissue, as compared to conventional radiation therapy. The investigators have successfully used this technology for the treatment of feline pituitary tumors.

Dogs that are eligible for inclusion in the study must have a diagnosis of PDH based on endocrine testing and clinical signs that are mild enough that medical therapy is not required. Also, dogs should not have neurological signs associated with the pituitary tumor. A complete blood count, biochemical profile, urinalysis, urine culture, and blood pressure must be completed prior to enrollment in the study. Chest radiographs and an abdominal ultrasound may also be required at the discretion of the investigators.

In order to enroll, dogs must meet the entry criteria and owners must be available to bring their dogs to CSU to undergo SRT treatment. A brain MRI and CT in all dogs will be performed, and 3 doses of radiation therapy will be delivered to the pituitary tumor. These procedures will be completed within 5 days. Endocrine testing will be performed in dogs before SRT, and at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months post-SRT. The total cost to the owners after enrollment into the study is $1200 (including brain imaging, anesthesia, SRT planning and administration, and endocrine blood tests).

For questions or enrollment, please contact Dr. Kathy Lunn, BVMS, MS, PhD, MRCVS, DACVIM (970-297-4010; Email:Kathy.Lunn@colostate.edu)