THERAPEUTIC MANAGEMENT OF CANINE MELANOMA

Abstract

Melanoma is a relatively common malignant neoplasm of melanocytic origin in dogs, characterized by its high capacity for local invasion and metastatic potential, especially when present in the oral region, which is also the most prevalent site. Due to its aggressiveness and high mortality rate, the oncological therapeutic management of the patient often becomes a significant clinical challenge for veterinarians, driving the search for the integration of various therapies, and invariably aiming for a better treatment prognosis. In this context, the present study aims to review the main therapeutic approaches used in the treatment of canine melanoma, as well as to present recent advances related to the identification of prognostic biomarkers and innovative therapeutic strategies. In summary, surgical resection with wide margins remains the main method of local control, and can be associated with radiotherapy in cases of incomplete surgery. Furthermore, radiotherapy, in conjunction with immunotherapy, is also extremely relevant in cases of intratumoral treatments for unresectable neoplasms, stimulating their regression and positively modulating the patient's systemic immunity to combat possible metastases. Recent studies on tumor prognosis and progression have identified related molecular biomarkers, such as prostaglandin E2, microRNA-126, and hypoxia-regulated serum Y RNA fragments. Evidence also indicates distinct genetic characteristics presented by canine melanomas compared to those observed in humans. Therefore, the need for early diagnosis using complementary exams, such as fine-needle aspiration cytology or histopathology by incisional biopsy, in addition to precise staging, and the adoption of integrated and personalized therapeutic strategies, using multimodal approaches based on the individual profile of each patient, are essential for effective treatment and improved patient prognosis.