Part 1: Oncology

Cancer represents one of the leading causes of death in companion animals and is among the most frequently diagnosed diseases in veterinary practice. While many patients present with advanced or aggressive tumors, early recognition and appropriate initial management can significantly influence outcomes. For this reason, it is essential for veterinarians to develop a solid foundational understanding of oncology, including tumor biology, diagnostic pathways, and available therapeutic options.

This oncology module is designed to provide a practical and structured approach to the oncological patient. Participants will learn what a tumor is, how tumors differ in behavior, and how to approach a suspected neoplastic case in daily practice. Particular emphasis will be placed on appropriate first steps, common pitfalls to avoid, and rational decision-making when referral or further diagnostics are indicated.

The course will also cover the main therapeutic options in veterinary oncology, including chemotherapy, with a focus on safe handling of cytotoxic drugs. Participants will gain familiarity with biopsy techniques and learn to recognize the most common tumors encountered in general practice. Practical sessions will be integrated throughout the course to allow application of theoretical knowledge and discussion of real-life clinical scenarios with the lecturer.

Part 2: Neurology

Neurological disorders often present with severe or rapidly progressive clinical signs and require prompt recognition and management to achieve a favorable outcome. In many cases, neurological signs may overlap with those of diseases affecting other organ systems, making a systematic and integrated clinical approach essential. Collaboration between internists and neurologists is often crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.

Neurological conditions may arise secondary to metabolic or systemic diseases, cause signs such as regurgitation or urinary and gastrointestinal dysfunction, or predispose patients to secondary conditions including aspiration pneumonia or urinary tract infections.

In this module, participants will learn how to recognize neurological signs, accurately localize lesions within the nervous system, and develop appropriate differential diagnoses. The course will also provide an overview of the pathophysiology, diagnostic approach, and treatment options for the most common neurological diseases encountered in veterinary practice.

At the end of this course, the participant will be able to:

• Understand what a tumor is and describe different tumor types and behaviors
• Apply appropriate first steps when facing a suspected tumor and identify what not to do
• Understand the available therapies in veterinary oncology, including principles of chemotherapy
• Demonstrate familiarity with biopsy techniques
• Recognize and identify the most common tumors encountered in daily veterinary practice
• Recognize the presence of neurological signs in a patient
• Localize the problem within the nervous system
• Provide an appropriate list of differential diagnoses
• Improve the clinical approach to common neurological diseases through a better understanding of their pathophysiology and treatment options

The module will provide basic and more advanced information about oncological and neurological disorders and it is suitable for more and less experienced veterinarians willing to deepen their knowledge in these topics.

All modules will be held in China, in English language with consecutive translation in Chinese.