From:
sgoettsch@comcast.net
Date: 2004-12-18 05:26:20 UTC
Subject: Adrenal/Insulinoma/Prostate Issues
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-Id: <121820040526.1223.41C3BF7B000D0213000004C72205886360080C9C9B9B0A01099C@comcast.net>
Hi everyone:
I am searching through the archives but it is slow going.
My 4.5 yo MF male ferret was showing signs I thought were consistent with insulinoma. We did in house blood glucose (most likely non-fasting as I was at school and not about to say yes or no) and his glucose was 63. Antech's came back as 67. So we started him on pred and is currently getting 1mg/kg BID pedipred, this seems to be treating the symptoms well while I work on getting surgery scheduled.
One of the signs I initially saw was hind end paresis and urinary dribbling, when neither sign completely cleared up, back to the vet. Radiographs were done, huge bladder and possible lumbosacral disc issues (per board cert. radiologist). Did a cysto on bladder - bacteria present - cystitis. Started him on Enrofloxacin 20mg/ml 0.3ml BID (1kg ferret).
About one week later, still not really seeing an improvement on bladder size during palpation at home. Bladder expresses fairly easily with minimal pressure. Suspect have adrenal disease with prostate complications (although no hair loss currently - had right adrenalectomy in Dec 2002), so got a Lupron injection (sorry, don't know the dosage, good for 1 month though so suspect typical dosage) on Weds.
My current concern is due to my interesting situation, I am having my parents watch them for 2 weeks so I can see my husband over the holiday and they don't live near a ferret vet. So I am trying to work things up as completely as possible to make lives a little easier for them.
How soon would I suspect to see improvement regarding the bladder/prostate issues with Lupron (one vet mentioned a couple of days but another wasn't sure)? We are continuing the Enrofloxacin to 4 weeks. Should I consider melatonin?
How likely is it that lumbosacral disc disease would contribute to bladder issues (atony?) ? I am planning on starting him on cosequin (1/2 cat dose) when I get back but could potentially start earlier if really needed now. (Trying to limit medications down to what is absolutely needed now)
I am planning on having surgery in January for insulinoma and adrenal gland.
Thanks for any suggestions.
Stephanie G.