Another recent research article on ferrets.  This one addresses the
unfortunate frequent occurance of tumors and possible diagnosis via
blood(serum) sample.  Nice to know that some studies are being done
on this problem.  Not sure if this type of info is wanted on the
mailing list, let me know either way.
 
 
Mark.
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>Marini, R.P., Ryden, E.B., Rosenblad, W.D., Murphy, J.C., and Fox, J.G.
>"Functional Islet Cell Tumor in Ferrets" Journal of the Amer. Veterinary
>Medical Assoc. (1993), 202(3), 430-433.
>
>Abstract:
>
>Functional islet cell tumor was diagnosed in 6 ferrets. Prominent
>clinical signs included weight loss, hind limb weakness, ptyalism,
>and tremors. The diagnosis was made on the basis of 2 or more of the
>following methods and confirmed by histologic examination of
>biopsied tissue: hypoglycemia on routine serum biochemical analysis,
>clinical signs of hypoglycemia, simultaneous development of
>hypoglycemia (44 +/- 9.9 mg/dl; X +/- SD), and hyperinsulinemia (58
>+/- 18.4 muU/ml; XBAR +/- SD) after food was withheld for 4 hours.
>Surgical resection of affected tissue was associated with clinical
>improvement in all cases. Foci of metastasis were found in 1 ferret.
>Diazoxide was unsuccessful in controlling persistent postsurgical
>hypoglycemia in 2 ferrets. Additional functional islet cell tumors
>were identifed in 5 of 6 ferrets at necropsy. Functional islet cell
>tumors are important neoplasms of older ferrets. Preventive health
>programs for ferrets > 3 years old should include monthly weight
>determinations and biannual CBC and serum biochemical analysis.
 
[Posted in FML issue 0448]