From:
Florence Love
Date: 2004-02-13 19:14:40 UTC
Subject: Cryptococcosis/Pathology Report -- Need Answers Please
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-ID: <3916915.1076700242531.JavaMail.nobody@vanadium.smartgroups.com>
I noticed that Pebbles had some type of growth on the front of her throat about
a month ago -- it seemed to come up quickly. Sort of like an Adams Apple on
people. Had it checked with my vet, and we decided to wait a couple of weeks to
see if it changed and could be moved seperate from neck area. She was fine and
then started losing weight, and wouldn't eat chicken gravy. Took her in and my vet
operated the same day. Pathology Report just came back and it was Cryptococcosis.
Here is a text format from the Pathologist of what the Pathology Report said.
Would like any help possible with the problem.
- - - - - - -
The submitted tissue appears to be tonsil or lymph node. The lymphoid organ
contains increased numbers of lymphocytes that represent all stages of lymphocytic
maturation. Multiple foci of histiocytic inflammation are visible within the node.
Moderate numbers of fungal yeasts are visible within the histiocytic inflammation.
Occasional narrow-based budding is visible and the yeasts have a thick mucinous
capsule.
Lymphadenitis, histiocytic severe chronic active with large numbers of Cryptococcal
yeasts.
Thank you for the submission of this interesting case. Although it appears an
infection of this type has not previously been reported in the US, ferret
cryptococcosis has been previously reported in Canada and Australia (References
were giving in his Pathology Report ? all Cryptococcosis in both country was
found at Necropsy). I would appreciate any more information that you may have on
this case. Cryptococcosis is a zoonotic disease if immunosuppressed individuals
have contact with this animal. Complete excision of the node could not be
confirmed. We advise appropriate antifungal therapy in this case also. For
consultation regarding the results of this case, please feel free to contact
XXX
Veterinary Pathologist
YYY
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Thanks,
Florence