Long-Term Survival of a Dog With Hepatocellular Carcinoma Under Treatment with Viscum Album – Case Report

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common liver neoplasm in dogs and can be treated by the Viscum album therapy in a curative or palliative way. The objective is to report a hepatocellular carcinoma case in a dog treated by homeopathic therapy, extending to Palliative Care, with a 24-month survival. A 12-year-old Schnauzer male with a history of a liver nodule was treated by intravenous and subcutaneous applications of V. album in different dynamization and combinations, chromotherapy, and oral homeopathic medicines. The tumor growth was controlled, and the health condition of the patient was stable while the medication was given as prescribed. However, as application frequency was reduced, tumor growth increased, and health deterioration was verified. Nevertheless and contrary to expectations, the patient had a 24-month survival. Therefore, these findings point to the potential of V. album on enhancing the quality of life, controlling tumor growth, and prolonging survival in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Patients under continuous treatment would benefit better from these properties.