From:
bdb5853@yahoo.com
Date: 2003-01-16 12:45:33 UTC
Subject: Apocrine Cyst in 5 year old male ....
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-ID: <17184057.1042721133286.JavaMail.root@scandium>
I have a 5 year old ferret who has been healthy his whole life. I have been watching a small, pea sized area on his flank, next to his tail for several months. It is non-itchy, and was like a recurring scab. I assumed it was a mast cell tumor, but thought as long as it wasn't bothering him - I'd just watch it.
Yesterday, I noticed that it had ballooned up almost overnight. I am now thinking it is an apocrine cyst as it is like a fluid filled blister with a weepy, raw area on the top of it. Almost like a soft marble was inserted under the skin. It is not attached to any of the structures underneath it and is fluctuant with fluid. A gentle squeeze does not produce any drainage.
Again, he is unbothered by it and leaves it alone. He acts totally normal and is very active, eats well, normal elimination habits, etc.
Does this need to be taken off surgically? Or can I just keep an eye on it. Is there any danger to just leaving it there? As long as its not bothering him?