Orthovoltage X-Ray Therapy of Large Cell Invasive Nasal Lymphoma in Cat

Feline nasal lymphoma is generally a localized radiosensitive tumor. Treatment options include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of both modalities. Radiation therapy (RT) in a combination with chemotherapy lead to median survival from 19 months to 955 days. The objective of this paper is to report a case of a large cell late stage invasive feline nasal lymphoma and to evaluate the results of orthovoltage radiation therapy and its side effects. A 12-year-old female mixed breed cat was presented with nasal discharge, sneezing and hyporexia. Definitive histopathology diagnosis was diffuse large cell lymphoma. Computed tomography revealed an advanced stage of the disease, an intranasal mass, bone lysis, invasion of the orbital space and central nervous system. A radical course of X-ray therapy was performed (SFD = 4 Gy, TSD = 40 Gy, 10 sessions, 3 times a week). Radiation side effects were well tolerated and resolved with supportive treatment. Lymphoma is a systemic process and requires a multidisciplinary approach. On most cases, the penetrating ability of radiation therapy of 3.5 cm in depth is enough for small domestic animals. A significant effect is noted in the middle of the treatment course. The fractionated regime did not cause early radiation damage. The relapse-free period was up to 8 months. The patient had a satisfying quality of life for 5 months. Orthovoltage X-ray therapy can be considered as a treatment choice for local nasal lymphoma. X-ray therapy is a widely used modality in veterinary medicine considering the price of machines and costs of treatment.