I am not sure about ferrets getting lupus, but I have it.  The main
diagnostic test is for a certain antigen in the blood.  When this antigen
is highly elevated it is a marker for the disease.
 
There are different types of lupus.  SLE is a systemic form that mainly
causes pain in the joints containing synovial fluid, such as hands, feet,
neck, hips and knees.  It causes deep bone pain and joint problems from a
build of of the antigen.
 
It can also cause thinning hair, rashes on the skin, very bad circulation
in hands and feet, fevers just to name a few.  There is also a type of
lupus that causes scarring on the head with large round bald spots,
reddish, that are permanent.
 
Although I don't know what the readings would be for a ferret, I would
suggest that a blood test be done to see is the antigen is elevated.
Usually this along with 3-4 of the other symptoms is how you diagnose
lupus.
 
Since lupus is an autoimmune disease, you treat with steroids and or pain
pills.  They also use anti-malarial drugs for treatment also.
 
Blessings,
Margie
--
Stoop and you'll be stepped on; stand tall and you'll be shot at.
Carlos A. Urbizo
[Posted in FML issue 4800]