Message Number: YG12171 | New FHL Archives Search
From: kath0524
Date: 2002-04-01 15:06:00 UTC
Subject: Re: Mast Cell Tumors

--- In Ferret-Health-list@y..., Caitlyn Martin <caitlynmaire@e...>
wrote:
> I'll join the chorus on this one. Our vet saw no reason to do
anything beyond removing a mast cell tumor (from Lady Ayeka) and
having the pathology done to confirm that it was benign, as is
normally the case. >

Thank you everyone on your input on x-rays after removal of a mast
cell tumor. I thought Doc was a little off the wall on that one
(said in my most affectionate tone <g>). He was on a cell phone when
he was talking to me and I suspect he was a little distracted. At
any rate, he won't be doing any x-rays on Dillon.

Which leads me to another question. How many of you actually have a
pathologist look at skin tumors once they are removed? I know that,
from a scientific standpoint, it is great to know exactly what you're
dealing with. But, I'm curious how many of you have changed anything
you have done as a result of a pathology report on a skin tumor. I
don't mind spending the necessary money on my ferrets but all of
these tests really add to the costs. When Dillon had his mast cell
tumor removed, Doc decided to do a CBC ($80) and also pathology ($75-
80). This added a bunch to the total cost. The surgery itself was
under $200 but the costs jumped up to $335 with the additional
tests. I'm looking to eliminate unnecessary tests.

Katharine