Message Number: SG2710 | New FHL Archives Search
From: FHbytheSea@aol.com
Date: 2002-12-27 12:50:43 UTC
Subject: Re: [ferrethealth] RE: strange things on xray
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-ID: <152.197ad7f3.2b3da6a3@aol.com>

In a message dated 12/26/02 5:47:20 PM Pacific Standard Time,
williamsdvm@comcast.net writes:

> For example - you mention a "shadow" - does that mean something that is
> lighter or darker than normal. From your description of the shadow having
> the outline of an airway in it, I'm assuming that it is an area of
> decreased contrast, actually lighter than the tissue around it, and as
> such, would most likely represent an area of consolidated lung. The airway
> still has air going through it, so it is outlined darkly within this area.
> So I am assuming this is likely not a lymph node, because lymph nodes don't
> generally have airways going through them. However, you should be able to
> see the "air bronchogram" on both the lateral and dorsoventral views.
>

Sorry about not being clear, Dr. Williams. On the dorsoventral view, the
heart is easily discernable as a light area on the xray. It appeared normal
in all respects. Immediately to the right of the heart, is another light area
(I called it a shadow) in or on the lung with a darkened area of a airway
clearly defined - obviously not normal. The area is not well defined like an
organ or mass would be. In the lateral view, the area we are concerned about
is obscured by the heart.

I've had one instance where lymphoma spread to the lung and I reminded the
vet that we had xrays of Morticia's body in the hopes that he could compare
her films to Busters'. I also had another ferret, Garrett, with athsma and
bronchitis, and we have many films of him for comparison.

Does that help? Thanks!

Lisa Leidig, Head Ferret
The Ferret Haven "By-the-Sea"
www.ferrethaven.org