Statistics show that dogs have a 1 in 3 chance of developing cancer in their lifetime and is the leading cause of death in dogs. 

I can not count the times that a worried client has asked me “if he/she has cancer, it will show up on the bloodwork, right?”  Until now, the answer has been “Well, not exactly.  We may see abnormalities consistent with cancer, but this is not a test specifically for cancer”.  That answer is about to change.  “The OncoK9 liquid biopsy test uses a simple blood draw to detect abnormal DNA released into circulation by cancer cells”. This test can detect 30 different types of cancer and can be used as a screening tool or a diagnostic test.  Here is what you need to know

Why would I want to run this test?

Just like in humans, early detection of cancer provides the best chance of remission or cure. 

What does a positive result mean?

A positive test means your pet has abnormal DNA that has been released by cancer cells. The next step is to find the source of the cancer.  While OncoK9 can detect cancer DNA, the only type of cancer it can predict at this time is Lymphoma.  With a positive test we may recommend X-rays, ultrasound or a CT scan to determine the type and location of the cancer. This will enable us to determine how to most effectively treat it.

What does a negative result mean?

At this time, there is no detectable DNA from cancer in the blood stream.  

How accurate is this test?

The study was done using over 1000 dogs with and without a diagnosis of cancer. It was able to detect 30 different cancer types.  Results were comparable to multi-cancer early detection tests recently developed for cancer screening for human patients. Results were as follows:

• 85% chance of detected the 3 most aggressive cancers in dogs (hemangiosarcoma, osteosarcoma, lymphosarcoma)
• 62% chance of detecting the 8 most common types of cancers in dogs (Lymphoma, hemangioma, Mast Cell Tumor, Anal gland adenocarcinoma, Mammary gland tumor, Soft Tissue Sarcoma, Malignant Melanoma, Osteosarcoma).
• 55% chance of detecting all cancers.

Where can I find out more about OncoK9?

Check out their website:   https://petdx.com/pet-parents/

Additionally, if you are interested in finding out more about OncoK9, please talk to the the doctors or trained staff members at Riverside!

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