Meaning of Clinical Signs, to Determine Hyperadrenocorticism in Ferrets (Mustela putorius furo)

MEANING OF CLINICAL SIGNS, TO DETERMINE HYPERADRENOCORTICISM IN FERRETS (Mustela putorius furo)

Introduction
There are many research studies about hyperadrenocorticism (excessive adrenal production of sex steroids related to adrenocortical adenomas and carcinomas) that is a common disease in neutered male and female pet ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) and causes significant morbidity. The chronic elevation in circulating luteinizing hormone (LH) that follows ovariectomy or orchiectomy is a prerequisite for neoplastic transformation in the adrenal glands. Without specific examination the detecting of adrenal disease can be difficult. This is a pending matter in Europe and all over the globe, where ferrets are held as pets. Incidence of ferret adrenal disease in Latvia is high because majority of them are gonadectomized. The aim of this research study was to evaluate clinical signs, to determine hyperadrenocorticism in ferrets.

Materials and methods
To find out the most relevant clinical signs of hyperadrenocorticism 28 (n=15 male, n=13 female) pet ferrets, diagnosed with adrenal disease, were included in this research (age 3 – 6 years). Full clinical examination was performed, and from 10 ferrets out of 28 blood samples were taken, and levels of 17-hydroxyprogesterone, estradiol and androstendione were detected. Hormonal values were compared with adrenal panel (The University of Tennessee). To establish clinical signs, noticed by ferret owners, a questionnaire was developed, and 10 owners were interviewed. […]