PI Name:
Protocol #:
APPENDIX B. TUMOR
Refer to the Tumor Monitoring Policy for further guidance when completing this appendix.
Maximum allowable size of tumors in a subcutaneous site is 1.5 cm in mice and 2.5 cm in rats, as
determined by measuring the largest diameter. If more than one site is involved, the combination of the
largest diameters cannot exceed these sizes.
Ulcerations represent nonviable tissue that will not heal, nor can they be surgically repaired. An ulcerated
tumor may appear as an open, moist lesion or as a scab, which is indicative of a break in the underlying
epithelium. Note that any disruption of the skin, even pinpoint, represents ulceration. All ulcerated
tumors require euthanasia.
The presence of tumors in body cavities such as the cranium, orbit, abdomen, or chest places greater
limitations on the maximum acceptable size of a growth as they may greatly impede the normal functions
of the animal. A tumor that interferes with the ambulation, feeding, or other postural functions of the
animal or poses severe impairment of physiological or neurological function, require euthanasia
regardless of size.
Investigators must label all cages that contain rodents into which foreign cells have been injected with the
following:
 The date and site of injection/implantation
 The cell line identity
 The name and emergency phone number contact of the individual primarily responsible for
monitoring the animals.
It is the responsibility of the principal investigator to ensure animals are observed daily, including
weekends and holidays, to monitor tumor growth and evaluate overall clinical condition, taking into
account weight loss and indications of pain, distress, or abnormal behavior and physiology, as detailed in
the UH IACUC Tumor Monitoring Policy and the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals.
Any deviation from the aforementioned policies will need Veterinary approval. Any mouse found with a
very large tumor, ulcerated tumor, or other non-specific signs of poor health are subject to euthanasia.
Any animal with notable tumor growth or other health related issue that is not checked DAILY by the
laboratory investigative staff when arrangements have not been made ahead of time with a veterinarian
is subject to euthanasia for a fee by ACO staff.
To assist with animal monitoring, ACO can provide tumor monitoring health charts for all laboratory staff
responsible for monitoring tumor growth and animal well-being.
DOR.ORPCC.A.0B - IACUC NP Appx B Tumors
Form updated March 2015
1 of 2
Inoculation Details
1. Indicate that the tumor guidelines listed above will be adhered to by signing and dating below.
Signature:
Date:
Any deviations from the guideline listed above require scientific justification:

2. Type of tumor cell line(s) (list all singly). Include source in which you plan to obtain cell lines:

3. Location of Injection or Inoculation Site (list all singly):

4. Treatment(s) and corresponding dosages applied to tumor if applicable (include controls, list all
separately). Include any anticipated outcomes, including any adverse reaction due to substance
administration:

5. Anesthesia or sedation used (include agent, dose, route, and frequency) :

6. Metastasis or other potential side effects:

7. Total number of injections and treatment episodes per mouse:

8. Clarify early experimental endpoints if different from those listed in the guidelines above:

Cell line Testing
Verify that the cell lines and their media sources have been recently tested for murine and human
pathogens and contaminants. If not, ACO can provide you with resources necessary to facilitate this.
Remember that ATCC does NOT routinely test for pathogens and thus lines ordered directly from them
will need testing. Check the appropriate box.
I verify that all cell lines have been recently tested for murine and human contaminants.
I have NOT recently had any cell line and media screening done, but will have it analyzed
before proceeding with the experiments.
I have NOT recently had my cell lines tested, but will provide the testing results from
the approved vendor I received the cells and media from before beginning experiments.
(attach documents)
Signature of Principal Investigator:
Date:
DOR.ORPCC.A.0B - IACUC NP Appx B Tumors
Form updated March 2015
2 of 2