Mycobacterial Cell Wall FractionDose, contraindications and adverse effects for Cattle, Dogs and Horses.

Immunostimulant (modified Mycobacterium cell wall components) injected into equine sarcoid tumors; activates macrophages and lymphocytes to attack tumor tissue. Mycobacterial cell wall fraction (MCWF) immunomodulator is US- DA-approved for use in dogs, horses, and cattle for a variety of indications. The canine product is approved for the treatment of mixed mammary tumors and mammary adenocarcinomas. There are multiple equine products with different indications, including treatment of sarcoids, equine respiratory disease complex (ERDC), and treatment o

Dogs: Immunotherapy for mixed mammary tumor and mammary adenocarcinoma (label dosage; USDA-approved): Administer by intratumoral injection only. Using no larger than a 20-gauge needle, infiltrate entire tumor and a small region of adjacent and underlying tissue. Dose varies with tumor size, but 1 mL should be considered a minimum dose. Administer as a single dose 2 to 4 weeks prior to surgery or repeat treatment every 1 to 3 weeks as an alternative to surgery.

Mycobacteriaceae have been known for many years to have antitumor activity. Mycobacterial cell wall fractionated compounds are an emulsion of mycobacterial cell wall fractions derived from Mycobac- terium phlei that have been modified to reduce their toxic and allergic effects but retain their antitumor activity.

Mycobacterial fractionated compounds should not be used in patients with prior hypersensitivity to them or those with mycobacterial infections. They should be used with caution in animals with a history of hyperimmune diseases. Discontinue use of mycobacterial fractionated compounds in animals that develop clinical signs such as urticaria, lymphadenitis, cellulitis, or abscessation.

Adverse effects may occur for 1 to 2 days following and can include fever, drowsiness, and decreased appetite. Local inflammation commonly occurs and can cause pain and tenderness at the injection site. Necrosis and draining may occur in regressing tumors, which can last for several weeks. Anaphylaxis or hypersensitivity reactions are possible; severe respiratory inflammatory reactions have also been reported in horses.

■ Clinical efficacy: tumor size, metritis improvement, or respiratory infection improvement ■ Adverse effects: fever, local reactions, anaphylaxis, appetite suppression