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Ferrets (Laboratory) - Pathology (view source)
Revision as of 19:55, 2 March 2011
, 19:55, 2 March 2011→Integument System
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==Hematolymphatic System==
''Splenomegally''
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This finding is extremely common in ferrets, although the causes are unknown. It is most common in middle to old age ferrets but has been reported in animals from six months old. The incidence of neoplasia in splenomegally is less than 10%. However, marked enlargement of the spleen increases the spleen's phagocytic capability resulting in increased RBC breakdown. In chronic cases, anemia may occur.
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Gross lesions will include enlarged spleens ranging up to 10cm in length. Most spleens will be diffusely enlarged whilst a small number will contain single or multiple discrete nodules which are likely to represent splenic neoplasms. Microscopic lesions include a combination of marked congestion and extramedullary haematopoiesis from erythrocytic, leukocytic and megakaryocytic cell lines in 95% of cases. There may also be large areas of coagulative necrosis which is often bordered by a combination of viable and degenerate neutrophils and various levels of granulation tissue. Enlarged spleens are prone to rupture and therefore there may be various signs of splenic trauma including haematoma, siderotic plaques and large areas of parenchymal fibrosis.
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==Integument System==
==Integument System==