Treatment of Feline Lung-Digit Syndrome with Toceranib Phosphate: Prolonged Survival and Novel Metastatic Findings

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Authors: Inês Cabral, Gustavo Matos, Gabriela Fernandes Silva, Fátima Carvalho, Irina Amorim
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Abstract

Feline pulmonary carcinomas are rare and often carry a poor prognosis, particularly when associated with feline lung–digit syndrome. We report a cat with primary pulmonary carcinoma and extensive metastases—including digits, pleura, mandible, scapula, spleen, skeletal muscle, and distant lymph nodes—supporting the broader “MODAL syndrome” concept. Adjuvant therapy with toceranib phosphate and meloxicam achieved prolonged survival and excellent quality of life, with no adverse effects despite dose escalation. Rapid progression after discontinuation suggests a role for toceranib in delaying tumour growth. Immunohistochemistry revealed c-kit expression in one metastatic lesion but not in the primary tumour or most metastases, highlighting intratumoral heterogeneity and the complexity of targeted therapy. The observed benefit likely reflects toceranib’s multi-target activity (VEGFR2, PDGFR), impacting angiogenesis and tumour progression. This case represents the first report of toceranib use in feline pulmonary carcinoma and underscores its potential as a palliative option.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Veterinary Oncology Research Veterinary Medicine and Surgery Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment

Publication details

Journal / source
Preprints.org
Publication date
8 January 2026
Language
EN
Document type
Preprint