Mitotic index is one of the many complicated-sounding medical terms that may be thrown at you after your dog is diagnosed with cancer. At its most basic, mitotic index is the count of how many cells in your dog’s tumor are actively dividing, or reproducing. But what does this mean for you and your dog? Dr. Britton breaks down how mitotic index can help determine the prognosis for your dog, as well as which cancers it is most significant for. The aggressive potential of some cancers is closely linked to the mitotic index, while others can still be treated successfully even if the mitotic index is sky-high.
Listen in to learn about the nuances of mitotic index, how to get it for your dog’s tumor, and when it is most important to know this number before you make treatment decisions.
Links Mentioned in Today’s Show:
National Human Genome Research Institute article on mitosis with images and video
Related Links:
Mast Cell Tumors – What You Need to Know About Your Dog’s Cancer podcast episode
Soft Tissue Sarcomas – What You Need to Know About Your Dog’s Cancer podcast episode
About Today’s Guest, Dr. Brooke Britton:
Brooke Britton completed her residency training in Medical Oncology at the University of Pennsylvania in 2012, and has been in clinical practice in the NYC and Jersey Shore area since that time. She helmed the Brooklyn and Downtown arms of the Oncology Department for BluePearl Veterinary Partners in New York for the past 9 years, and was an active participant in house officer training and clinical trials during her tenure there. She currently serves as a private consultant and maintains an independent clinical practice. Dr. Britton has lectured nationally and authored several peer-reviewed articles. She has particular interest in hematologic malignancies and the metastatic cascade.
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Dog Cancer Answers is a Maui Media production in association with Dog Podcast Network
This episode is sponsored by the best-selling animal health book The Dog Cancer Survival Guide: Full Spectrum Treatments to Optimize Your Dog’s Life Quality and Longevity by Dr. Demian Dressler and Dr. Susan Ettinger. Available everywhere fine books are sold.
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