Dr. Brolin Evans, DVM
Owner Veterinarian Arista Atlanta
What is Electrochemotherapy?
Electrochemotherapy (ECT) is a cutting-edge cancer treatment that combines a low dose of chemotherapy with short electrical pulses. These pulses temporarily open the walls of cancer cells, allowing the chemotherapy drug to enter more effectively. It targets the tumor area without affecting the whole body as much as traditional chemotherapy.
How Does It Work?
- Chemotherapy Injection
A low dose of a chemotherapy drug (commonly bleomycin) is injected directly into the tumor or into the bloodstream. - Electrical Pulses
A small device sends brief electrical pulses to the tumor. These pulses make the cancer cells more permeable, allowing the drug to penetrate and kill them more effectively. We use a human-grade electrochemotherapy machine with the same probes used in humans. - Tumor Cell Destruction
The treated cancer cells are damaged by the drug, and the body gradually clears them out.
Benefits of Electrochemotherapy
- Minimally Invasive: Most treatments are done on an outpatient basis under light sedation or general anesthesia.
- Targeted Therapy: ECT focuses on the tumor site and minimizes effects on the rest of the body, similarly to radiation therapy.
- Fewer Side Effects: Since it uses lower doses of chemotherapy, side effects like nausea, vomiting, or hair loss are rare. The side effects are much less than those of radiation therapy.
- Can Be Used With Other Treatments: ECT can be combined with surgery, traditional chemotherapy, or radiation for better tumor control.
What Types of Tumors Can Be Treated?
Electrochemotherapy is most effective for:
- Skin tumors
- Subcutaneous (just under the skin) tumors
- Recurrent tumors at surgical sites
- Tumors in areas that are difficult for surgery
Common tumor types treated include:
- Mast cell tumors
- Soft tissue sarcomas
- Squamous cell carcinomas
- Melanomas
What to Expect
Before Treatment:
- Your pet may need bloodwork and imaging (e.g., ultrasound) to check for spread.
- A short fasting period is required before the heavy sedation/anesthesia.
During Treatment:
- The procedure usually takes about 30 minutes.
- Your pet is monitored closely while sedated or under anesthesia.
- Chemotherapy is given and allowed to distribute throughout the body.
- Electrical impulses are applied to the tumor using electrical probes.
After Treatment:
- Mild swelling, redness, or scabbing at the treatment site is normal.
- You may be sent home with pain medications.
- Applying cold compresses to the treated area can help with the inflammation.
- Pets generally recover quickly and return to normal activity within a day or two.
How Many Treatments Are Needed?
Typically, 1 to 2 sessions are needed, spaced 2–4 weeks apart, depending on the tumor type, location, and response.
Are There Any Risks?
- Mild local discomfort at the treatment site
- Scabbing, crusting, or temporary hair loss
- Risks related to sedation or anesthesia
- Rarely, wound healing issues if the tumor is large or deeply infiltrated
ECT is generally very well tolerated by pets.
Is Electrochemotherapy Right for My Pet?
ECT may be a good option if:
- To obtain local tumor control after surgery (e.g., narrow/incomplete margins)
- You’re looking for a less aggressive alternative to full course radiation therapy
- Surgery isn’t possible or ideal – i.e. nasal planum squamous cell carcinomas in cats
- Your pet has had tumor regrowth at a previous surgery site
Your oncologist will help determine if ECT is appropriate based on your pet’s diagnosis and overall health. If you’re interested in exploring ECT for your pet, Arista Advanced Pet Care is here to help.
