From:
williamsdvm@comcast.net
Date: 2002-09-28 01:05:12 UTC
Subject: RE: Styes and other eyelid growths on ferrets
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-ID: <24839310.1033175112278.JavaMail.root@scandium>
Author wrote:
> We have noticed on one of Rockies eyes that the inner lids seem thicker
> than the other eye. Its been that way for a long time if not his whole life.
> But now, on that same eye, is a growth emerging.
Dear Wolfy:
Growths on the eyelids can be one of a couple of things. Most growths have to do with the Meibomian glands, glands that are associated with the eyelashes. These can take the form of a tumor (the vast majority are benign, or simply occlusion of the duct, swelling of the gland with sebum, a greasy but normal secretion, and eventual rupture, inciting inflammation in the surrounding tissue (called a chalazion).
There are a couple of other benign tumors that may pop up on the eyelid. The eyelid seems to be a preferred site for neural tumors. However, if it is at the lid margin, it is likely either a Meibomian adenoma or a chalazion.
If it does not go away, and continues to grow - best to have it removed. You never want to let a lid growth get too large, for fear that removing it won't leave you enough tissue to close.
With kindest regards,
Bruce Williams, DVM