Unexpected Neurotoxicity in Dogs Receiving a Cyclophosphamide, Dactinomycin, and 5‐Fluorouracil Chemotherapy Protocol

Abstract

An inexpensive combination chemotherapy protocol containing cyclophosphamide, dactinomycin, and 5‐fluorouracil was evaluated in dogs with carcinomas. Fifteen dogs were entered in this study, and there were 1 complete response and 2 partial responses among 12 evaluable dogs. However, 6 of 15 dogs (40%) developed neurotoxicity. The neurotoxicity of this protocol was compared with a previous 5‐fluorouracil‐containing protocol and found to be significantly higher. Due to the unacceptably high rate of neurotoxicity, this protocol cannot be recommended for use in dogs with cancer. © 1994 American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine