As we enter another new year and think of what it will bring, it’s difficult to not look back to what has or may have been achieved. We are often reminded to live for today and not in the past, but it’s with respect for the past that we can grow and recognize how far we have come. In this issue, Drs. Joanne Intile and Alexandra Gareau discuss the future of cancer detection in dogs with the advent of liquid biopsy. The use of biological fluids for analyzing cancer-related signals has gained significant interest in the past decade in human medicine. Liquid biopsies have the potential to identify a wide range of biomolecular features and indicate disease status. However, many existing liquid biopsies lack the sensitivity and specificity for reliable detection of early-stage cancers. Thankfully, a single test is rarely relied upon for the diagnosis of significant diseases; therefore, liquid biopsy should be integrated as a valuable piece of a multifaceted approach. Looking back in time, we can appreciate how long it takes for progress and understand how fallible it can be, but such history gives us perspective to most effectively use new technology. Likewise, if we live for today, we need to acknowledge that we can live alongside the future at the same time and try to make it work to our advantage.
What We’re Reading
In each issue, a member of our Editorial Advisory Board will share a recent publication, including a summary and key takeaways.
Bites by Venomous Reptiles in Canada, the United States, and Mexico
Norris RL, Bush SP, Cardwell MD
In: Auerbach PS, Cushing TA, Harris NS, eds. Auerbach’s Wilderness Medicine, 2-Volume Set. 7th edition. Elsevier; 2017:729-760.
What Was Discussed? This textbook chapter reviewed the distinctive characteristics of various venomous snakes throughout the Western Hemisphere and the medical consequences to their envenomated victims. The chapter expands beyond its title to include many of the other venomous snakes throughout the world.
Take-Home Points
- This chapter provides detailed information about venom constituents and their pathophysiological effects on the victim.
- The chapter includes valuable descriptions regarding the medical management of snake bites, including detailed information on the various types and therapeutic applications of antivenoms.
- The clinician needs to be familiar with the snakes indigenous to their particular geographic locations to accurately interpret various clinical signs that form the basis for diagnosis and treatment.
— Michael Schaer, DVM, DACVIM, DACVECC
What We’re Up To
Today’s Veterinary Practice Editor in Chief Simon Platt is 1 of 3 lead editors of the soon-to-be-published 5th edition of the BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Neurology. This internationally renowned practical manual has been updated with the inclusion of flow charts, new illustrations, and deeper understandings of the most common and uncommon neurologic diseases. The manual features detailed information on the latest developments in veterinary neurology and is a comprehensive guide for veterinary professionals and students alike, making it an invaluable tool for anyone seeking to understand the diagnosis and treatment of neurologic disorders in dogs and cats.