From:
"rcsimoes2"
Date: 2008-12-16 03:28:19 UTC
Subject: [ferrethealth] Insulinoma - need help!
To: ferrethealth@yahoogroups.com
I have a 4.5 year-old ferret - Nina - and I think she has insulinoma.
She had been sleeping more than usual, I thought it was because it was
cold, she was getting older and recently moved from a 2nd floor
apartment to a house (her bed is upstairs, were she sleeps). But last
week I noticed she was much less active (12/11).
Here are the glucose results:
12/12 (glucometer) 74 mg/dL (fasted 2h)
12/15 (glucometer) 72 mg/dL (fasted 2h, but I am pretty sure she
didn't eat before that, so would guess she fasted for about 6-7h)
12/15 (chemistry - same blood sample from glucometer) 81 mg/dL
Symptoms so far: less active, sleeps more, weight haven't changed, I
think she stares blankly into the space (not a lot, not sure), it's
harder to wake her up.
I am EXTREMELY concerned. Her vet doesn't recommend surgery now, she
wants to wait until the prednisone doesn't work anymore. Also, she
recommended me to give small amounts of (sic) Nutracal... I even asked
if she was sure.
So I'm seeking for a second opinion... does anybody know a list with
vets specialized in ferrets?
[There is a not an accredited specialization in mammal exotics
YET but will be starting pretty soon. Meanwhile, FHL members
have recommended these people:
http://ferrethealth.org/vets/
--Mod]
Also, if anybody could help me with these questions I would really
appreciate!
1)Is the glucose level+symptoms above enough for the dx?
2)If I start the prednisone she recommended, would it be OK to do the
surgery after 2 weeks-1 month?
3)What are you experience between surgery + medication if necessary
compared to medication only? (I am thinking surgery with partial
pancreatectomy is the best way to go).
4)Is the surgery too traumatic/complicated? How is recovery?
I think I am more depressed with all this because I am a vet (can't -
and don't want- to practice in the US, I am a researcher and have NO
experience with ferrets). Also there is a vet school in my city, BUT
there is no exotic animal vets there (not for mammals).
If I decide that surgery is the best option, does my opinion matter at
all? Should I push for it? Am I thinking only on myself trying to keep
Nina with me as long as I can?
I REALLY appreciate any help.
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