EC26S-082: A Pilot Study of Radiation Therapy as an Immune-Modulating Treatment for Feline Chronic Gingivostomatitis

Feline chronic gingivostomatitis (FCGS) is a painful and debilitating oral disease in cats, and current treatments, such as long-term medications or removing all the teeth, often do not provide enough relief. Research suggests that overactive immune cells called CD8⁺ T cells play a key role in the disease. This pilot study will test whether a small, targeted dose of radiation therapy can reduce immune cell activity and improve clinical signs in six cats with FCGS. We will measure pain and quality of life using veterinarian assessments and owner questionnaires, and examine immune changes in the blood and oral tissues. We expect that radiation therapy will calm the overactive immune response, reduce inflammation, and improve comfort and quality of life. The findings will help guide future studies and could lead to new, mechanism-based treatments for cats suffering from FCGS. (Joan Miller New Investigator Award)