New Cancer Test
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April 2000

In December of 1998, our Kyly was diagnosed with transitional cell carcinoma, cancer, of the Bladder.  The diagnosis was made through ultrasound that determined the presence of an apparent tumor on the wall of the bladder.  It was confirmed when we had the tumor removed and biopsied.  Because of prior experience with a much younger Scottie [6 years old], which we treated using chemotherapy, we opted this time to utilize piroxicam, baytril, and special vitamins.  Kyly is still alive, eating, playing, and demanding anything and everything she enjoys.  We know this will not last much longer.  It has now been a year and four months, Kyly is 14 years and 4 months of age.  Periodically we have repeated the ultra sound procedure in order to evaluate her condition.

Two days ago, we took her to the nearby vet, Dr.  Brad, who has ultra sound equipment.  We are able to assist with holding her, and watching the results on the screen.  There appeared to be increased shading, indicating either scar tissue, or tumor growth.  Brad asked if we wanted him to run the new diagnostic test for suspected TCC of the bladder.  The existence of such a test came as a complete shock and surprise to us!  He drew a urine sample, it took a couple of minutes for the test, and her cancer diagnosis was confirmed, for $33.  It is a color spectrum type of comparison.  We saw the results.

This morning, I have been on the phone for over an hour with the Abbott Animal Health representative, obtaining information which I feel is remarkable.  A company, Polymedco, had developed this diagnostic test about a year ago, while researching human cancer.  The test proved to be highly accurate for canines and one month ago the V BTA Kit began being marketed by Abbott.  This is the first tumor marker test to be developed!  It is used in diagnosing TCC of the lower urinary tract, which includes the bladder, the urethra, and the prostate!  The significance of this is almost beyond comprehension.  As we discussed it with Dr.  Brad, the test will show if cancer is present.  Then ultra sound can follow to determine the site within the bladder, or other areas.

Our best family vet was aware of the kit availability.  Since it has only been marketed for one month, and not campaigned yet, the majority of veterinarians are likely unaware of it.  The Abbott representative advised that the kit can be acquired through the vet's Preferred District Representative.  The Project Manager for Abbott is presently in Europe and is to call me early May, specifically to discuss the incidence of bladder cancer, prostate cancer, in our breed.  Our call was the first received by Abbott's representatives and they were excited to hear about Kyly and our experience with the V BTA Kit.

I asked Abbott, since they have come this far, how about extending their capabilities to finding a cure.  I will be receiving detailed information about the test by mail.  But, I think that what I have said so far is sufficiently informative for those of your having concerns with blood in urine, straining, and other similar symptoms that might be indicative of the presence of cancer.

Nancy
 

PS The VBTA kit marketed by Abbott Labs for diagnosing tumors of the lower urinary tract has not proven to be reliable and at least two dogs which have been tested and had negative results are known to have developed tumors.

At least one other pharmaceutical company is now working on an improved diagnostic kit and we will keep you informed if and when we hear the results of their work.   John

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