From:
amandadegraw@hotmail.com
Date: 2005-12-16 18:04:02 UTC
Subject: [ferrethealth] RE: Melatonin Implant Question
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
First off, I will say I am very sorry to hear about your Buddy. May he rest in peace...
As for vaccine induced tumors, here is what I know...
I work at an animal hospital in MN that is collaborating with the U of MN to look at a genetic defect that may lead to fibrosarcomas in cats upon vaccination. Here is a description of the research from the Vaccine-Associated Feline Sarcoma Task Force website (http://www.avma.org/vafstf/default.asp)
Begin quote:
Molecular biomarkers of vaccine-associated feline sarcoma: alterations in gene expression during tumor development.
The investigators are studying key molecular changes that occur during the development of vaccine-associated feline sarcomas, with the ultimate goal of improving strategies for disease prevention and management. Initial results indicate that there may be a heritable genetic component that makes some cats more prone to tumor development. In the next phase of study, the researchers analyzed specific breeds of cats in the US that may have this predisposition. The results of this investigation will hopefully enable informed decisions to be made regarding the breeding and care of cats with the susceptibility to developing vaccine-associated sarcomas. In this study, the researchers will investigate the entire set of genes that are differentially expressed during tumor development. A comprehensive understanding of these molecular changes will enhance the ability to prevent and treat the disease.
End Quote.
It is still unknown what exactly causes this cancer. Many hypotheses are being explored (see sponsered research described on the Vaccine-Associated Feline Sarcoma Task Force website) But with any cancer, it is most likely a combination of things, such as the genetic defect, and carcinogenic agents in the vaccine itself (if they exist).
Now, as for ferrets, it is quite possible that the inflammation from the implant injection could have induced the tumor. Inflammation is being explored as a major source of cancers in humans as well as animals. In fact, many anti-inflammatory, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, are being explored as cancer preventative agents.
Once again, I am so sorry for your loss. I just wanted to pass on the info i know about vaccine induced tumors in cats.
If anyone would like to talk more, or has questions, just ask.
Author wrote:
> My Buddy passed on last week, he was 8-1/2 years young.
> He was a very courageous little ferret, fighting several serious health
> issues.
> Many thanks to those here that held my hand and offered encouragement during
> the days I thought I would loose him the past year and a half.
> I come here again with another issue with Buddy.
> He had developed a tumor on his back in the last 3 weeks.
> Necropsy/pathology showed it to be a fibrosarcoma.
> Cats are prone to these from vaccines. From what I read, it's the vaccine
> itself, not the injection process that causes the tumor.
> Due to Buddy's poor health, I chose not to vaccinate him.
> His only injections in the nearly two years with me were two lupron, not in
> the area of the tumor.
> Also two melatonin implants, very near the area of the tumor.
> When my vet examined the tumor, there was no capsule in it.
> My vet is not certain it could be a result of the injection/large bore
> needle. She is doing further research, and asked I pass along any info I
> find helpful.
> Both of Buddy's vets are fairly new to Melatonin implants, so neither have a
> long history to look back on.
> Any one here had anything similar happen in a ferret?
> Ardith
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