[Treatment of equine sarcoids with cisplatin in arachid oil: a useful alternative?].

The research study was conducted at the Department of Equine Sciences, Utrecht University, to explore the possibility of treating equine sarcoids (type of skin tumor in horses) with the drug cisplatin. They found that 78% of the tumors regressed completely, with no systemic side effects reported.

Study Overview

• The research was performed at the Department of Equine Sciences at Utrecht University, focusing on the use of the cytostatic drug, cisplatin, for treating equine sarcoids.
• The study spanned from 2000 to 2001 and involved 14 horses with 23 tumors.

Results of the Study

• The researchers found that 78% of the tumors treated showed complete regression, which indicates a strong positive response to the treatment.
• Furthermore, it was observed during the study that no systemic (affecting the whole body) side effects were associated with the use of cisplatin in the treated horses.

Treatment Process and Safety Guidelines

• The researchers have highlighted that the treatment process is easy to perform, implying that it could potentially be a practical solution in real-world settings.
• However, they have also reiterated the importance of following the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle when using cytostatic drugs like cisplatin. This principle emphasizes minimizing the exposure and hence potential harm caused by such drugs.