From:
ifixrex2000@yahoo.com
Date: 2004-07-28 20:12:47 UTC
Subject: spleen/insulinoma/pred questions
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-ID: <7322776.1091045567640.JavaMail.root@thallium.smartgroups.com>
This is in reference to previous post "suggestions". I now have more info.
I have been reading in the archives about this but still am not sure what to do.
My ferret had insulinoma surgery to remove one large tumor and a portion of his pancreas in March. He has done very well since then.
Then almost a week ago he became very lethargic. He eats pretty well, goes to the bathroom normally, but looks very tired and wants to roll up and sleep wherever he happens to be. Back leg trouble like couldn't lift all the way off ground. Then abdomen started to look distended.
Vet found low blood sugar and elevated white cell count. All other blood work normal. Spleen is 4 times normal size. Does not feel its lymphoma.
Vet put him on 1/4 of one 5mg pred twice per day (he weighs about 3 lbs.) for one week. Then 1/4 of one 5mg pred once per day. Also on amoxidrops.
There was a definite improvement with the pred. But he still seems very lethargic and I think he's really uncomfortable with the spleen.
Vet says ok to leave spleen in at least for now. No need to worry about rupture too much.
So I have three questions:
1)Is a spleen 4 times normal size at risk for rupture?
2)At this size and seeing lethargy should it be removed?
3)Do all ferrets on pred take something to protect their stomach? My vet said not to worry unless see probs.
I really think the spleen is causing discomfort and the vet doens't think it will go down. I think vet would agree to removal if we wanted it. Said they would take another look at pancreas while they were in there if did surgery.
This ferret is 6 y.o. and bounced back very well from surgery in March.
Sorry to be so long, thanks in advance for opinions, info.
End of ferrethealth Digest
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