Evaluation of the use of a novel bioabsorbable polymer drug-eluting microsphere for transarterial embolization of hepatocellular neoplasia in dogs

Transarterial embolisation in the treatment of persistent haematuria in two dogs with lower urinary tract carcinoma

Two dogs with haematuria and frequent urination were referred to our veterinary hospital. They were diagnosed with lower urinary tract carcinoma based on urine cytology and BRAF mutation testing. Transarterial embolisation was performed because of persistent haematuria. This procedure involved super-selective catheterisation and embolisation of the tumour-feeding arteries using gelatine sponge particles, achieving near stasis. After transarterial embolisation, both patients showed resolution of haematuria within 4 days and a marked reduction in tumour volume after 1 month. However, both patients experienced recurrence of haematuria 4 to 6 weeks after the procedure, leading to a second embolisation being performed for each. Following the second embolisation, the haematuria resolved again. Transarterial embolisation could provide benefits for managing persistent haematuria and provides local tumour control in dogs with lower urinary tract carcinoma.

Veterinary Interventional Oncology

Interventional oncology (IO) is a rapidly growing field in veterinary medicine and has been accepted as a fourth pillar of treatment of neoplastic disease with other modalities including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The major categories of IO therapies in companion animals are focused on the use of locoregional therapies and stenting of malignant obstructions. Although significant assessment of veterinary IO techniques is still necessary, early evaluation of these varying techniques is demonstrating promising results.

3D printing of pharmaceuticals for disease treatment

Three-dimensional (3D) printing or Additive manufacturing has paved the way for developing and manufacturing pharmaceuticals in a personalized manner for patients with high volume and rare diseases. The traditional pharmaceutical manufacturing process involves the utilization of various excipients to facilitate the stages of blending, mixing, pressing, releasing, and packaging. In some cases, these excipients cause serious side effects to the patients. The 3D printing of pharmaceutical manufacturing avoids the need for excessive excipients. The two major components of a 3D printed tablet or dosage form are polymer matrix and drug component alone. Hence the usage of the 3D printed dosage forms for disease treatment will avoid unwanted side effects and provide higher therapeutic efficacy. With respect to the benefits of the 3D printed pharmaceuticals, the present review was constructed by discussing the role of 3D printing in producing formulations of various dosage forms such as fast and slow releasing, buccal delivery, and localized delivery. The dosage forms are polymeric tablets, nanoparticles, scaffolds, and films employed for treating different diseases.