To Amy and Dave concerning Ian:
 
        Unfortunately, not all insulinomas are visible at surgery.  That doesn't
mean that they wouldn't be visible now.  For most ferrets with enlarged spleen,
removal is not necessary.  It will, however, help a number of ferrets, simply
because a very enlarged spleen will displace and compress adjacent organs
resulting in an animal who doesn't feel quite right.  Imagine if you had a forty
pound spleen...
 
        Removing the spleen also affords Dr. K. another time to look for that
islet cell tumor.  One last surgery may be able to take care of everything.  If
you are concerned with Ian "dying with dignity", though, and wish to avoid
further trances, seizures, etc., you might consider euthanasia (a suggestion,
not a recommendation).
 
       Bruce Williams, DVM                 Department of Veterinary Pathology
       [log in to unmask]         Armed Forces Institute of Pathology
       (202) 576-2453/2454                 Washington, D.C.  20306-6000
 
[Posted in FML issue 0967]