Publisher's Synopsis
Cancer is recognized as one of the major diseases to affect companion animals and is certainly one of the top health concerns of owners, perhaps more so now than 12 years ago when the BSAVA′s Manual of Small Animal Oncology was first published. This completely revised and updated edition reflects the advances made in understanding the disease and in its detection and treatment.
Following a brief discussion of the molecular biology of cancer, the principles of tumour classification and clinical staging are described. Biopsy and cytology techniques are covered in detail, with step–by–step illustrations where appropriate. Diagnostic imaging is discussed with reference to tried and tested methods such as radiography and ultrasonography, plus recent innovations such as CT, MRI and scintigraphy. The importance of a healthcare team approach treatment, and the roles of palliative therapy, pain control, nutritional support and euthanasia, are explored. Principles of established treatments (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy) are set out and newer methods such as genetic, immunological and photodynamic therapies are reviewed.
Tumours of body systems are dealt with in a standard format to aid information retrieval:
- General considerations (incidence, breed predispositions, pathology)
- Presentation and clinical signs
- Clinical approach (diagnostics and clinical staging)
- Management and prognosis
The book is illustrated throughout with explanatory diagrams, clinical photographs and useful tables and charts, most in full colour.
