Message Number: SG8685 | New FHL Archives Search
From: Caitlyn Martin
Date: 2004-05-05 00:35:13 UTC
Subject: Remaining adrenal tissue after surgery (was: distended bladder/ update)
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-ID: <20040505003513.22882.qmail@web50805.mail.yahoo.com>

Hi, Jennifer and everyone else,

> Since there was adrenal tissue left can the adrenal
> tumors grow back?

Yes. This is why our vet routinely ligates the vena
cava when removing a right adrenal gland. He wants to
make sure all of the gland comes out. He has said
that if you leave any of the gland in you leave the
disease in.

> can the little amount of tissue
> thats left cause all the other problems Koda is
> having now without being able to see a tumor?

A small amount of tissue generally shouldn't cause
problems immediately. In the long run, though, it can
be the reason another surgery is needed. I know of
ferrets that have had three adrenal surgeries.

> Is it common to then have three or four adrenal
> sugeries in a ferrets life time?

No, it's uncommon. Indeed, if the vet can get all of
the glands then the only way adrenal disease can
return is if there is ectopic adrenal tissue. At
least that's how I understand it. Please remember
that I am not a vet.

All the best,
Caity and the super six

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