Cyclooxygenase-2 expression in epithelial neoplasms and its relevance as a targeted therapy in dogs

Targeted therapy of neoplasms is an emergent approach in human and veterinary medicine. Cyclooxygenase (COX) is a class of catalytic enzymes related to the formation of inflammatory mediators. COX-2 is expressed constitutively in a few body tissues, but it may be induced in specific pathophysiologic conditions, such as cancer. COX-2 expression in neoplams may be considered a potential predictive factor, due to the possible association of selective COX-2 inhibitors in adjuvant treatments. This scientific communication has the objective to report COX-2 expression in seven neoplasms of dogs and the usage of adjuvant treatment with COX-2 selective inhibitors as an effective and feasible option in cancer treatment.