Rusty's Cancer and Fanconi Syndrome Update

[Chuck Holliman]

I have waited until we had more information on Rusty's Fanconi Syndrome before posting.   Rusty’s last check up, on March 9^th , was all good news; no sign of the cancer returning and his lab results showed that all of his kidney readings are finally at “normal” levels.  April 25^th will be the 27^th month anniversary of his amputation.

I  posted previously that Rusty had developed “Fanconi Syndrome”, which is an impairment in the function of the kidneys that causes certain compounds which should be absorbed in the bloodstream by the kidneys to be excreted in the urine instead. Fanconi’s syndrome is generally an inherited disease that affects the proximal renal tubule and causes abnormalities in sodium, glucose, calcium, phosphate and amino acid retention. The disease can also be mimicked by certain toxins and drugs (Chemo) that affect the proximal renal tubule and interrupt normal functioning.  Rusty is losing glucose, amino acids, uric acid and phosphate into his urine.  This explains his increased water consumption and frequent urination.  It also explains his weight loss as he is dumping nutrients into his urine. 

A couple of weeks ago I sent an email to Dr. Gonto, who developed the Fanconi Syndrome protocol in 2003, to see if he had an update to his protocol.  I was not sure that I would reach or hear from him; boy was I surprised.  Dr. Gonto is an MD (surgeon) who has pursued treatment protocols for Fanconi dogs; he is currently is monitoring about 300 dogs throughout the world.  He responded immediately; we exchanged several emails and Dr. Macy sent Rusty’s test results for the past four months to Dr. Gonto. We are now part of a "fanconidog" support group; it is great that so many people are willing to share their experiences and advice with those of us going through the same challenges.

I received this response today from Dr. Gonto "I agree COMPLETELY with where Dr. Macy has this dog and would change NOTHING". He went on to say since Rusty had "induced Fanconi" that it would not be necessary to put him on any supplements, especially with his sensitive stomach; that we should "just watch and see".  This was very good news for us; to have both Dr.'s in agreement with Rusty's treatment protocol is very reassuring.  We will continue to monitor Rusty and Dr. Macy has him on a sixty day follow-up schedule for lab work, both for the Fanconi and to watch for the return of his cancer.

There was an article a few days ago from Dr. Susan Ettinger, (who is part of Dr. Dressler’s cancer team) from her attendance at the 2nd World Veterinary Cancer Congress in Paris; “A new side effect for Lomustine is being reported: kidney toxicity. We don’t yet know how common it is, but I will be double-checking for this in my own patients.”  I have offered to have Dr. Macy send Rusty’s test results and diagnosis history to her for evaluation.  Dr. Macy had Rusty on Lomustine for twelve months in the fight with his very aggressive cancer.  We are waiting for more results to come out, but this pretty well confirms that Rusty's Fanconi Syndrome was "induced" from his Chemo treatments.

We are extremely pleased that Rusty's cancer is in remission and that we are able to control his Fanconi Syndrome with medications and diet. He has certainly had his share of challenges during his young life.

Chuck & Rusty

[Jennifer,Chloe & Myla]

Yeah Rusty! This is great news and you opened some more doors for additional help and advice! This is great, thanks for the update. Rusty you are remarkable!

[BG and Gavin]

Thank you for updating us on Rusty.  Very positive indeed.  You go Rusty!

[Kaytlin and Cooper]

what a wonderful update, glad Rusty is doing well

[Elizabeth & Cosmo]

Wow, this is great news, Chuck! I'm so glad Rusty's cancer is in remission, and that you have been in touch with such great experts on the kidney issues. I know it is reassuring to know that his current treatment is on the right track.

I know Rusty is grateful for all you're doing for him, and I wish him many, many healthy days ahead!

[Nicky, Riley & Boris]

Happy to read this update on Rusty and all the details of the side effects of the chemo that are under control.  Thank goodness for wonderful vets with ever increasing knowledge and owners like you who seek out the best medical care for their so loved pets.  May Rusty continue to do well for many years to come.

[Adrianne Matzkin]

I was thinking about you and Rusty the other day so I am thrilled to hear that all is going well!! I can't believe it has been over 2 year since his surgery. 

Prayers all sent his way from us!!!

[F, Calla & Luca]

This is very good news about Rusty. I also think the medical aspects are very interesting. You are amazing in the lengths you go to in order to find Rusty the best treatment, most up to date information and great medical care.

[Laurie, Fudge, and Vern]

Thank you for another update on Rusty. It sounds like things are going pretty well and I hope Rusty continues to remain in remission.