What is apSTAR?
The apSTAR cancer laser system is an autologous patient specific tumor antigen response technology. This means we are stimulating the patient’s own immune system to react and fight off the cancer cells anywhere in the body. Tumor cells often produce a specific signature (antigen) that distinguishes them from normal tissue. The apSTAR procedure is designed to illuminate these antigens so the patient’s immune system can recognize them. 

apSTAR is NOT: Chemotherapy, Radiation, or traditional Photodynamic Therapy

How does it work? We inject a photosensitizer medication into the tumor and then using the specific medical diode laser we treat the affected area. We then inject glycated chitosan gel polymer around the treated area to stabilize the tumor antigens that are released. This element optimizes immune presentation so infiltrating immune cells have a better chance of recognizing the antigens in the polymer. 

What are the benefits of the apSTAR procedure? In most cases we only need to treat a localized region of a tumor to produce a local and systemic immune response. In most cases, two to three procedures may be required. If successful, we have a way to treat the cancer anywhere in the body, as metastatic cancer cells are often difficult to manage.  

Are there risks involved? Yes, as with any procedure there are risks. The apSTAR procedures will often require general anesthesia or heavy sedation. There will be some localized skin/tumor reactions – like a burn affect to the sites treated – which we manage with topical medications and oral pain medications. There will often be swelling of the area being treated which is actually part of the tumor and immune system response to the procedure. In addition, some patients may get a rash or temperature, another indication that a systemic response has occurred. Although not observed to date, there is always the chance the patient may have a reaction to the anesthetic, photosensitizer, or chitosan polymer used in these procedures. Although not anticipated, such reactions can occur and could potentially range from mild to severe.  

How is the apSTAR procedure performed? Your pet is sedated (either general anesthesia or heavy sedation) and the tumor is prepared. An additional local anesthesia block may be used. Then the photosensitizing dye is administered, then after a short wait the medical laser is utilized for approximately 10 minutes per procedure site. Lastly, the area around the tumor is injected (infiltrated) with the GC polymer. Then patient is awakened from anesthesia. The total time may be 30 to 55 minutes, and most patients can go home the same day.  

How often is the apSTAR procedure performed? Usually, two to three procedures anywhere from 2-4 weeks apart, like boosters for a vaccination. 

Is the apSTAR procedure expensive? The costs of apSTAR procedure will be less than most chemotherapy or radiation protocols. The procedure costs will involve, patient examination, presurgical lab tests, general anesthesia and the apSTAR procedure . We highly recommend asking for an estimate from the treating doctor.  

What happens after the procedure? The patient will need to be seen every 10-14 days to evaluate tumor site and localized response. Evaluating the tumor metastasis will require radiographs, ultrasound or CT examinations. These steps help us understand a patient’s degree of response to the apSTAR procedure. 

What side effects might occur? Localized swelling and external skin inflammation and some ulceration may occur (can appear like a burned area). Deeper swellings may occur that are due to the immune system reaction to cancers in the area treated. The doctor will use proper pain medications, antibiotics and topical medications to help manage post – procedure issues.