>I've searched the archives but can't seem to figure out exactly what
>Addison's disease is.
>
>I have four ferrets who have been through two adrenal surgeries each - the
>most recent round within the past 4-8 weeks - all their electolytes were
>off by 3 weeks post-op, despite being given an injection of percortin at
>the time of surgery and being on pedia-pred (.3ML once daily for 2 weeks,
>then .3ML once every other day for two weeks).
>
>Because these were second surgeries for all of them, I'd known to surely
>watch for signs of their ratios being off, their vet was fairly sure he'd
>removed everything.
>
>From the mentions of Addison's disease, I'm assuming this has something
>to do with ferrets having true bilateral adrenal surgeries.  I've heard
>mention some risks of levels being off and ferrets being off.  I've been
>very vigilant with my ferrets and with giving the injections.
 
Dear X:
 
Addison's disease is also known as adrenocortical insufficiency.  The
adrenal glands produce a number of compounds that regulate levels of
various chemicals and minerals in the body.  One of these, the
mineralocorticoids, helps to maintain the level of electrolytes,
primarily sodium, in the body.
 
If the adrenal glands are removed, the source of this hormone is also
removed, and the electrolytes are thrown out of whack.  The sodium level
falls, and the sodium:potassium ratio falls.  This can be life-
threatening if it goes on long enough.  Sodium is indeed important.
 
Keep up with the injections - they are your ferret's adrenals.
 
With kindest regards,
 
Xzuce Williams, DVM
 
[Sukie note: This is one of two alternative approaches; the other uses
oral Florinef instead of Percortin (Percorten?).  Some ferrets do better
on one and some on the other.]
[Posted in FML issue 3584]