Vaccine-associated sarcoma
radiation therapy for cats
in Florida.
Feline injection-site sarcoma is one of the most challenging cancers in cats — locally aggressive, prone to recurrence after surgery alone. Radiation is a critical part of the multimodal standard of care that dramatically reduces recurrence rates.
“The only center 100% dedicated to Radiation Oncology in Florida”
Surgery alone is not enough.
Radiation changes the outcome.
Vaccine-associated sarcoma infiltrates beyond its visible margins — invading muscle, fascia, and adjacent tissue far beyond what can be seen or palpated. This is why surgery alone fails so consistently. Radiation sterilizes the margins that surgery cannot take, dramatically reducing the local recurrence rate that would otherwise occur within months.
VAS is triggered by an inflammatory response to injected materials — vaccine adjuvants, microchips, long-acting medications. The resulting sarcoma is biologically aggressive: it grows rapidly, extends along fascial planes, and can reach surgical margins even with aggressive resection. The Vaccine-Associated Feline Sarcoma Task Force established guidelines recommending 3 cm lateral and one fascial plane deep as minimum margins — guidelines that are rarely achievable without significant morbidity.
Pre-operative vs. post-operative radiation
Neoadjuvant (pre-operative) radiation reduces tumor volume before surgery, potentially allowing wider margins and sterilizing the invasive periphery. Post-operative (adjuvant) CFRT targets the surgical bed where microscopic residual disease persists. Both approaches are supported by evidence, and the choice depends on tumor size, location, and surgical planning. Dr. DiBernardi discusses the optimal sequence for each case individually.
What CT reveals — and why it matters
CT of the primary site and thorax is essential before treatment. CT defines the true extent of tumor infiltration — often revealing invasion far beyond palpable boundaries — and screens for pulmonary metastasis. This information directly impacts surgical planning, radiation field design, and prognosis.
Radiation as part of
the multimodal standard.
VAS treatment at AARADONC begins with CT staging and a detailed review of the biopsy. Dr. DiBernardi coordinates with the surgical team to plan radiation that maximizes local control — whether pre- or post-operatively — and integrates systemic therapy when indicated.
CT staging before any treatment. CT of the primary site and thorax defines true tumor extent and screens for pulmonary metastasis — essential for surgical and radiation planning.
Adjuvant CFRT after incomplete excision. 16–20 daily sessions target the surgical bed, dramatically reducing the recurrence rate that surgery alone cannot prevent.
Neoadjuvant radiation when appropriate. Pre-operative radiation can reduce tumor volume before surgery — potentially allowing wider margins and sterilizing the invasive periphery.
What pet owners
ask us most.
Same-day response.
Dr. DiBernardi personally reviews every case. Tell us about your cat and we'll respond the same day with a clear, honest recommendation.
Request a Consultationvaccine-associated sarcoma.
Submit a referral and receive same-day acknowledgment. We coordinate radiation with your surgical team and provide full written reports throughout treatment.
Referral Information →