Development of ulcerative footpad lesions following free doxorubicin chemotherapy in a cat

Authors: Jegatheeson S, Cooper MA
Publication: Australian Veterinary Practitioner, Volume 49, Issue 1, pp 20-23, Mar 2019
Publisher: Australian Veterinary Association

Animal type: Cat
Subject Terms: Animal remedies/veterinary medicines, Clinical examination, Lymphatic system, Oncology, Toxicology
Article class: Clinical Report

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Abstract:

CASE REPORT: A 12-year-old male neutered Domestic Long-hair cat was treated for alimentary lymphoma with two doses of free doxorubicin. However, ulceration, inflammation, moist exudation and crusting of the left and right forepaws occurred. Analgesia and antibiotics were commenced, and doxorubicin was discontinued. The cutaneous reaction observed appeared clinically similar to the lesions seen with palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia, a cutaneous side effect of chemotherapy previously reported in dogs and humans, but not previously reported in cats receiving free doxorubicin. Histopathology was unable to be undertaken in this case. The cutaneous signs were successfully managed with discontinuation of treatment and supportive care.

CONCLUSION: Further investigation into the prevalence and mechanisms of cutaneous toxicity of doxorubicin in cats is required.

KEYWORDS: cats; chemotherapy; cutaneous toxicity; doxorubicin; lymphoma; palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia

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