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Huynh M, Piazza S. Musculoskeletal and Neurologic Diseases. FERRETS, RABBITS, AND RODENTS 2021. [PMCID: PMC7258713 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-48435-0.00010-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Ferrets may exhibit neurologic signs as a result of various conditions that may be of nervous or muscular origin. Neurologic examination follows the same principles as in small animal medicine. One of the main defect that may be screened during clinical examination is deafness. Congenital deafness in ferrets is associated with coat color patterns such as white markings and premature graying.In this species, paresis is a common presentation and may reflect a generalized weakness. Spinal disorder, intervertebral disk disease, and neoplasia are among the differential diagnosis. Diagnostic exams usually include advance diagnostic imaging such as CT-scan associated with myelography. Seizure is usually associated with hypoglycemia and insulinoma, but other causes such as hypocalcemia or intracranial disorders have been described. Ferrets are sensitive to various neurotropic infectious disease such as rabies, distemper, aleutian disease, or systemic coronavirus. Finally, muscular disorder such as disseminated idiopathic myofasciitis and myasthenia gravis have been recently described, and potential treatments have been intended.
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Johnston L, Mackay B, King T, Krockenberger MB, Malik R, Tebb A. Abdominal cryptococcosis in dogs and cats: 38 cases (2000-2018). J Small Anim Pract 2020; 62:19-27. [PMID: 33107069 DOI: 10.1111/jsap.13232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To report the clinical presentation, laboratory and imaging findings, treatment and outcome of abdominal cryptococcosis in dogs and cats in Australia. MATERIALS AND METHODS Canine and feline cases from Australia were retrospectively identified (2000 to 2018) via laboratory and referral centre searches for abdominal cryptococcosis diagnosed by cytology (needle aspirates) or histopathology (biopsy or necropsy) of abdominal organs/tissues. Signalment, presenting complaints, clinical signs, laboratory findings, medical imaging, latex cryptococcal antigen agglutination test (LCAT) titres, treatment and outcome data was collected. RESULTS Thirty-eight cases were included (35 dogs, three cats) in the study. Median age of presentation was 2 years for dogs and 6 years for cats. Common presenting complaints included vomiting (23/38), lethargy (19/38) and inappetence/anorexia (15/38). Abdominal ultrasound (25/38 cases) revealed mesenteric and intestinal lesions in most of the cases. On surgical exploration, seven cases had an intestinal lesion associated with an intussusception. Nineteen cases had a pre-treatment LCAT performed, with a median initial titre of 1:2048 (range 1:2 to 65,536). Twenty-four cases (23 dogs, one cat) received treatment, either medical, surgical or both. Median survival time for cases with combined medical and surgical treatment, surgical treatment alone or medical treatment alone was 730, 140 and 561 days, respectively. Eleven remain alive at the time of follow up. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Abdominal cryptococcosis although rare should be a considered as a diagnostic possibility in an especially young dog presenting with gastro-intestinal signs. Older dogs can also present with this condition and should not be euthanised based on imaging alone due to the likenesses with neoplasia. With appropriate treatment and monitoring many dogs may have a prolonged survival period and some may be cured.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Johnston
- Department of Internal Medicine, Veterinary Specialist Services, Carrara, 4211, Australia
| | - B Mackay
- Department of Internal Medicine, Veterinary Specialist Services, Carrara, 4211, Australia
| | - T King
- Department of Internal Medicine, Veterinary Specialist Services, Carrara, 4211, Australia
| | - M B Krockenberger
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, 2006, Australia
| | - R Malik
- Centre for Veterinary Education, The University of Sydney, Sydney, 2006, Australia.,School of Animal and Veterinary Science, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, 2678, Australia
| | - A Tebb
- Western Australian Veterinary Emergency and Speciality, Success, 6164, Australia
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Cook SE, Bradway DS, Gardhouse SM, LaDouceur EEB. Pathology in Practice. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2020; 255:673-675. [PMID: 31478821 DOI: 10.2460/javma.255.6.673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Le K, Beaufrère H, Laniesse D, Blois S, Kabakchiev C, Smith DA, Finck C, Chalmers H, Brochu N, Keller S, Gaitero L. Diagnosis and long-term management of blastomycosis in two ferrets (Mustela putorius furo). J Exot Pet Med 2019. [DOI: 10.1053/j.jepm.2019.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Greenacre CB, Dowling M, Nobrega-Lee M. Diagnosis and Treatment of Histoplasmosis in a Group of Four Domestic Ferrets (Mustela Putorius Furo) and a Review of Histoplasmosis. J Exot Pet Med 2019. [DOI: 10.1053/j.jepm.2018.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Evans DE, Kawabata A, Wilson LD, Kim K, Dehghanpir SD, Gaunt SD, Welborn M, Grasperge B, Gill MS. Entomophthoromycosis and mucormycosis as causes of pneumonia in Vietnamese potbellied pigs. J Vet Diagn Invest 2017; 30:161-164. [PMID: 29034814 DOI: 10.1177/1040638717729860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Two Vietnamese potbellied pigs ( Sus scrofa) had respiratory disease and, on autopsy, both pigs had large masses in the lungs and thoracic cavity. Microscopically, pulmonary and pleural masses contained large areas with hyphae surrounded by hypereosinophilic cellular debris rimmed by abundant eosinophils, lymphocytes, plasma cells, and histiocytes with occasional multinucleate giant cells. The hypereosinophilic debris usually formed tight cuffs, or "sleeves" around the hyphae, compatible with Splendore-Hoeppli-like material. The fungal organisms were determined by PCR to be Conidiobolus incongruus in one pig and Mucor circinelloides in the other. Entomophthoromycosis and mucormycosis should be included in the differential diagnoses for swine pneumonia, particularly when there is evidence of granulomatous pulmonary masses and pleural effusion with eosinophilic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawn E Evans
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences (Evans, Kawabata, Wilson, Kim, Dehghanpir, Gaunt, Grasperge), School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital and Clinics, Food Animal Medicine (Welborn, Gill), School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA
| | - Atsushi Kawabata
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences (Evans, Kawabata, Wilson, Kim, Dehghanpir, Gaunt, Grasperge), School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital and Clinics, Food Animal Medicine (Welborn, Gill), School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA
| | - Leslie D Wilson
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences (Evans, Kawabata, Wilson, Kim, Dehghanpir, Gaunt, Grasperge), School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital and Clinics, Food Animal Medicine (Welborn, Gill), School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA
| | - Kenneth Kim
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences (Evans, Kawabata, Wilson, Kim, Dehghanpir, Gaunt, Grasperge), School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital and Clinics, Food Animal Medicine (Welborn, Gill), School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA
| | - Shannon D Dehghanpir
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences (Evans, Kawabata, Wilson, Kim, Dehghanpir, Gaunt, Grasperge), School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital and Clinics, Food Animal Medicine (Welborn, Gill), School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA
| | - Steve D Gaunt
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences (Evans, Kawabata, Wilson, Kim, Dehghanpir, Gaunt, Grasperge), School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital and Clinics, Food Animal Medicine (Welborn, Gill), School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA
| | - Matt Welborn
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences (Evans, Kawabata, Wilson, Kim, Dehghanpir, Gaunt, Grasperge), School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital and Clinics, Food Animal Medicine (Welborn, Gill), School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA
| | - Britton Grasperge
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences (Evans, Kawabata, Wilson, Kim, Dehghanpir, Gaunt, Grasperge), School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital and Clinics, Food Animal Medicine (Welborn, Gill), School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA
| | - Marjorie S Gill
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences (Evans, Kawabata, Wilson, Kim, Dehghanpir, Gaunt, Grasperge), School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital and Clinics, Food Animal Medicine (Welborn, Gill), School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA
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Suran JN, Latney LV, Wyre NR. Radiographic and ultrasonographic findings of the spleen and abdominal lymph nodes in healthy domestic ferrets. J Small Anim Pract 2017; 58:444-453. [PMID: 28414856 PMCID: PMC7166479 DOI: 10.1111/jsap.12680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2016] [Revised: 02/15/2017] [Accepted: 03/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Objective To describe the radiographic and ultrasonographic characteristics of the spleen and abdominal lymph nodes in clinically healthy ferrets. Materials and Methods Fifty‐five clinically healthy ferrets were prospectively recruited for this cross‐sectional study. Three‐view whole body radiographs and abdominal ultrasonography were performed on awake (23 out of 55) or sedated (32 out of 55) ferrets. On radiographs splenic and abdominal lymph node visibility was assessed. Splenic thickness and echogenicity and lymph node length, thickness, echogenicity, number and presence of cyst‐like changes were recorded. Results The spleen was radiographically detectable in all ferrets. On ultrasound the spleen was hyperechoic to the liver (55 out of 55) and mildly hyperechoic (28 out of 55), isoechoic (15 out of 55) or mildly hypoechoic (12 out of 55) to the renal cortices. Mean splenic thickness was 11.80 ±0.34 mm. Lymph nodes were radiographically discernible in 28 out of 55 ferrets and included caudal mesenteric and sublumbar nodes. An average of 9 ±2 lymph nodes (mean± standard deviation; mode 10) were identified in each ferret using ultrasound. A single large jejunal lymph node was identified in all ferrets and had a mean thickness of 5.28 ± 1.66 mm. For other lymph nodes the mean thickness measurements plus one standard deviation were less than 4.4 mm (95% confidence interval: ≤ 3.72 mm). Clinical Significance The information provided in this study may act as a baseline for evaluation of the spleen and lymph nodes in ferrets.
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Affiliation(s)
- J N Suran
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - L V Latney
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - N R Wyre
- Zodiac Pet & Exotic Hospital, Tin Hau, Hong Kong
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Cerebral Candidal Abscess and Bovine Viral Diarrhoea Virus Infection in an Aborted Bovine Fetus. J Comp Pathol 2016; 154:161-4. [PMID: 26895887 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2016.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2015] [Revised: 12/30/2015] [Accepted: 01/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Candida species are opportunistic fungi associated with immunosuppression and are the most commonly isolated fungal pathogens from the human central nervous system. Invasive candidiasis is reported uncommonly in animals and there have only been two reports of candidal infection of the brain. This report presents a case of a cerebral candidal abscess in an aborted late-term calf co-infected with bovine viral diarrhoea virus. Candida etchellsii, a species not previously identified as pathogenic, was identified as the causative agent by polymerase chain reaction.
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Trevijano-Contador N, Herrero-Fernández I, García-Barbazán I, Scorzoni L, Rueda C, Rossi SA, García-Rodas R, Zaragoza O. Cryptococcus neoformans induces antimicrobial responses and behaves as a facultative intracellular pathogen in the non mammalian model Galleria mellonella. Virulence 2015; 6:66-74. [PMID: 25531532 PMCID: PMC4603429 DOI: 10.4161/21505594.2014.986412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2014] [Revised: 10/05/2014] [Accepted: 11/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans is an encapsulated opportunistic fungal pathogen that is found in multiple niches in the environment and that can cause fatal meningoencephalitis in susceptible patients, mainly HIV+ individuals. Cryptococcus also infects environmental hosts such as nematodes, insects and plants. In particular, C. neoformans can kill the lepidopteran Galleria mellonella, which offers a useful tool to study microbial virulence and drug efficacy. Galleria mellonella immunity relies on innate responses based on melanization, accumulation of antimicrobial peptides, and cellular responses as phagocytosis or multicellular encapsulation. In this work we have investigated the immune response of G. mellonella during cryptococcal infection. We found that G. mellonella infected with C. neoformans had a high lytic activity in their hemolymph. This response was temperature- and capsule-dependent. During interaction with phagocytic cells, C. neoformans behaved as an intracellular pathogen since it could replicate within hemocytes. Non-lytic events were also observed. In contrast to Candida species, C. neoformans did not induce melanization of G. mellonella after infection. Finally, passage of C. neoformans through G. mellonella resulted in changes in capsule structure as it has been also reported during infection in mammals. Our results highlight that G. mellonella is an optimal model to investigate innate immune responses against C. neoformans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuria Trevijano-Contador
- Mycology Reference Laboratory; National Center for Microbiology; Instituto de Salud Carlos III; Carretera Majadahonda-Pozuelo, Km2; Majadahonda, 28220, Madrid, Spain
| | - Inés Herrero-Fernández
- Mycology Reference Laboratory; National Center for Microbiology; Instituto de Salud Carlos III; Carretera Majadahonda-Pozuelo, Km2; Majadahonda, 28220, Madrid, Spain
| | - Irene García-Barbazán
- Mycology Reference Laboratory; National Center for Microbiology; Instituto de Salud Carlos III; Carretera Majadahonda-Pozuelo, Km2; Majadahonda, 28220, Madrid, Spain
| | - Liliana Scorzoni
- Mycology Reference Laboratory; National Center for Microbiology; Instituto de Salud Carlos III; Carretera Majadahonda-Pozuelo, Km2; Majadahonda, 28220, Madrid, Spain
- Laboratório de Micologia Clínica; Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas; R. Expedicionários do Brasil, 1621, CEP. 14801–902, Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cristina Rueda
- Mycology Reference Laboratory; National Center for Microbiology; Instituto de Salud Carlos III; Carretera Majadahonda-Pozuelo, Km2; Majadahonda, 28220, Madrid, Spain
| | - Suélen Andreia Rossi
- Mycology Reference Laboratory; National Center for Microbiology; Instituto de Salud Carlos III; Carretera Majadahonda-Pozuelo, Km2; Majadahonda, 28220, Madrid, Spain
- Laboratório de Micologia Clínica; Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas; R. Expedicionários do Brasil, 1621, CEP. 14801–902, Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rocío García-Rodas
- Mycology Reference Laboratory; National Center for Microbiology; Instituto de Salud Carlos III; Carretera Majadahonda-Pozuelo, Km2; Majadahonda, 28220, Madrid, Spain
| | - Oscar Zaragoza
- Mycology Reference Laboratory; National Center for Microbiology; Instituto de Salud Carlos III; Carretera Majadahonda-Pozuelo, Km2; Majadahonda, 28220, Madrid, Spain
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10
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Ferrets as sentinels of the presence of pathogenic Cryptococcus species in the Mediterranean environment. Mycopathologia 2014; 178:145-51. [PMID: 24962111 PMCID: PMC7089463 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-014-9773-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2014] [Accepted: 06/12/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Cryptococcus gattii is a pathogenic environmental yeast that is considered to be emerging in different areas of the world including the Mediterranean Basin. Exposure to infection might be more likely in animals than in human beings, given their closer relationship with the natural habitat of the yeast, vegetation and soil. Thus, animals, and especially pets, can act as indicators of the presence of this yeast in a determined area. Domestic ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) have become common pets in the past 10-20 years. Their natural behavior of sniffing around and going inside narrow spaces makes them prone to contact with decaying organic matter and soil, the substrate for Cryptococcus species. This study describes two cases of cryptococcosis in ferrets in the Iberian Peninsula and Balearic Islands and documents a relationship of ferret cryptococcosis with environmental isolates in the same locations. Here, we emphasize the importance of how an adequate identification and environmental search of the yeast leads to a better understanding of the epidemiology of cryptococcosis and suggests ferrets may act as sentinels for this fungal disease.
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Darrow BG, Mans C, Drees R, Pinkerton ME, Sladky KK. Pulmonary Blastomycosis in a Domestic Ferret (Mustela putorius furo). J Exot Pet Med 2014. [DOI: 10.1053/j.jepm.2014.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Locally Acquired Disseminated Histoplasmosis in a Northern Sea Otter (Enhydra lutris kenyoni) in Alaska, USA. J Wildl Dis 2014; 50:389-92. [DOI: 10.7589/2013-11-288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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13
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Nelson DD, Haldorson GJ, Stanton JB, Noh SM, Bradway DS, Mansfield KG, Baszler TV. Francisella tularensis infection without lesions in gray tree squirrels (Sciurus griseus): a diagnostic challenge. J Vet Diagn Invest 2014; 26:312-5. [PMID: 24557750 DOI: 10.1177/1040638713520541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Fifteen cases of Francisella tularensis infection (tularemia) were identified in western gray (Sciurus griseus) and eastern gray (Sciurus carolinensis) squirrels submitted to the Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory between 2008 and 2011. All of the squirrels originated in Washington State, a geographical area with endemic tularemia in wildlife. Nine of the 15 squirrels with F. tularensis infection had gross (2/15) or microscopic (9/15) multifocal necrotizing lesions in the spleen, liver, or lymph nodes, typical of tularemia. Special stains did not reliably identify intralesional bacteria microscopically. Six of the 15 squirrels infected with F. tularensis lacked gross and microscopic lesions typical of tularemia. All 15 squirrels with F. tularensis infection were identified by polymerase chain reaction tests on the spleen, liver, or lymph node (including all 6 squirrels without typical tularemia lesions); 8 out of 9 squirrels were positive by direct fluorescent antibody test of tissues, and 5 out of 15 squirrels were positive by culture of tissues. The findings underscore the importance of considering tularemia as a possible cause of death when no lesions of tularemia can be identified at necropsy. Furthermore, the findings suggest the possibility of subclinical infections in gray squirrels, and the importance of molecular diagnostics for definitive diagnosis of F. tularensis infection in wild squirrels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle D Nelson
- 1Danielle D. Nelson, Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, Washington State University, PO Box 647040, Pullman, WA 99164-7040.
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Mancinelli E, Meredith AL, Stidworthy MF. Systemic Infection Due to Candida parapsilosis in a Domestic Ferret ( Mustela putorius furo). J Exot Pet Med 2014; 23:85-90. [PMID: 32288679 PMCID: PMC7106228 DOI: 10.1053/j.jepm.2013.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
An 18-month-old castrated male ferret (Mustela putorius furo) was presented to the veterinary hospital for acute collapse but died despite initiation of emergency treatment. The body was submitted for a complete postmortem examination. The pathologist determined the ferret was suffering from severe necrotizing encephalitis, necrogranulomatous mediastinal lymphadenitis, and ulcerative dermatitis attributable to systemic Candida parapsilosis. This is the first report of systemic Candida parapsilosis in a ferret.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Mancinelli
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, Easter Bush Veterinary Centre, Roslin, Scotland
| | - Anna L Meredith
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, Easter Bush Veterinary Centre, Roslin, Scotland
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15
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Immunocompromised patients and their pets: Still best friends? Vet J 2013; 197:662-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2013.05.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2012] [Revised: 04/16/2013] [Accepted: 05/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Abstract
Since their introduction as pets several decades ago, ferrets have become an increasingly popular household pet. Great strides have been made in improving their diet and understanding common diseases (eg, insulinoma, hyperadrenocorticism, lymphoma) that affect them. With the frequency with which these conditions are seen, it sometimes is easy to forget that ferrets can be affected by other diseases. Some of these diseases, such as cryptococcosis, are known, but may be increasing in incidence and range, whereas others, such as hypothyroidism and pure red cell aplasia, may be underrecognized or underreported. This review highlights new and emerging diseases not already well reviewed in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole R Wyre
- Section of Exotic Companion Animal Medicine and Surgery, Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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17
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Abstract
Liver disease in ferrets is often subclinical and underdiagnosed. Clinical pathology and diagnostic imaging are needed to guide clinicians but definite diagnosis is based on histopathologic lesions. Inflammatory digestive conditions can lead to ascending tract infection and hepatobiliary inflammation. Ferrets have a specific sensitivity to hepatic lipidosis. Incidence of hepatic neoplasia is high in ferrets. After a summary of anatomy and physiology of the ferret liver, hepatic diseases known in ferret species are reviewed with their subsequent diagnostic procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minh Huynh
- Exotic Department, Centre Hospitalier Vétérinaire Fregis, Arcueil 94110, France.
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Dominguez E, Novellas R, Moya A, Espada Y, Martorell J. Abdominal radiographic and ultrasonographic findings in ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) with systemic coronavirus infection. Vet Rec 2011; 169:231. [PMID: 21862468 DOI: 10.1136/vr.d4705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Ferret systemic coronavirus infection (FSCV) is a systemic disease in ferrets that clinically and pathologically resembles the dry form of FIP. The present study describes abdominal imaging features of 11 ferrets with FSCV. Abdominal survey radiographs were available for eight ferrets and ultrasound examination for all cases. Loss of lumbar musculature, decreased peritoneal detail, presence of mid-abdominal soft-tissue masses and splenomegaly were the most significant radiographic signs in these patients. Ultrasonographic findings including peritonitis, abdominal lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, abdominal soft-tissue masses, nephromegaly and changes in the renal cortex echogenicity were recorded in the majority of cases with FSCV. As an imaging modality, ultrasound is superior to radiology when abdominal contrast is reduced, as it frequently occurs in these cases. However, although imaging techniques provide additional information in the antemortem diagnosis, they can not replace the definitive diagnosis based on histological and immunohistochemical results.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Dominguez
- Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Spain
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Ropstad EO, Leiva M, Peña T, Morera N, Martorell J. Cryptococcus gattii chorioretinitis in a ferret. Vet Ophthalmol 2011; 14:262-6. [PMID: 21733068 DOI: 10.1111/j.1463-5224.2011.00885.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Bilateral exudative chorioretinitis was diagnosed in an 18-month-old male neutered ferret (Mustela putorius furo) with a generalized Cryptococcus gattii infection confirmed by PCR. The animal was referred to the Ophthalmology Service of the Autonomous University of Barcelona (VTH-UAB) for acute onset blindness. Complete ophthalmic examination revealed absent menace response and dazzle reflex in both eyes (OU), as well as subretinal edema located in the tapetal fundus. At that time, the clinical ophthalmologic diagnosis was bilateral exudative chorioretinitis. Treatment with prednisone (0.5 mg/kg PO q24 h) was instituted in addition to the ongoing treatment with fluconazole (10 mg/kg PO q24 h). The following rechecks revealed secondary cataracts with subsequent lens subluxation and panretinal degeneration OU. Despite being blind and the poor prognosis of disseminate cryptococcosis, the patient remained active and in good body condition during 6 months after the initial diagnosis. At that time, the ferret showed ataxia, incontinence, and generalized pain. A magnetic resonance imaging study revealed a mass affecting the spine. The owners declined further investigations and the ferret was humanely euthanized. The postmortem histopathology confirmed the initial diagnosis of cryptococcosis and the presence of intraretinal Cryptococcus spp. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of Cryptococcus spp. induced exudative chorioretinitis in a ferret.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernst-Otto Ropstad
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animal, Facultat de Veterinària, Servei d'Oftalmologia, Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
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Morera N, Juan-Sallés C, Torres JM, Andreu M, Sánchez M, Zamora MÁ, Colom MF. Cryptococcus gattii infection in a Spanish pet ferret (Mustela putorius furo) and asymptomatic carriage in ferrets and humans from its environment. Med Mycol 2011; 49:779-84. [PMID: 21395475 DOI: 10.3109/13693786.2011.564216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A domestic ferret (Mustela putorius furo) was presented with lymphadenopathy and acute bilateral blindness. Cytologic evaluation and biopsy of an affected lymph node revealed pyogranulomatous lymphadenitis with intralesional yeast consistent with Cryptococcus sp. Subsequent studies demonstrated Cryptococcus gattii serotype B VGI/AFLP4 as the causative agent. The ferret was treated with fluconazole and prednisone. After one month of therapy, an improvement of the clinical symptoms was detected although blindness persisted. Seven months after presentation, the disease progressed to a severe neurologic condition, and it was euthanized. Postmortem exam revealed disseminated cryptococcosis with prominent neurologic involvement. Nasal swabs of other ferrets and humans from the same household revealed that two ferrets and two humans to be asymptomatic carriers of the same strain of cryptococcus as the necropsied ferret. These findings stress the importance of veterinary diagnostic work with pets and epidemiological investigations for disease prevention in them and in their owners.
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