Laurie R. Goodrich, DVM, MS, of Cornell University, described the benefits of injecting Cisplatin mixed in an oily emulsion to treat sarcoids and squamous cell carcinomas. She presented her findings at the recent American Association of Equine Practitioners convention. Cisplatin is a heavy metal compound that stops cell division and causes cell death. It has been used by intratumoral (into the tumor) injection in the treatment of sarcoids with an 87% success rate, and in the treatment of squamous cell carcinomas with a 65% success rate.

Goodrich said the procedure is safe, causes minimal local wound toxicosis, and does not affect the healing of surgical incisions. Surgical debridement can be combined with the injections to lower the cost and number of injections needed. Goodrich said that success depends on owner complianc with and commitment to the protocol.