Insulinoma in ferret (Mustela putorius furo) - case report

Abstract

ABSTRACT Insulinoma is a tumor of pancreatic beta cells that occurs in ferrets and can lead to symptoms such as hypoglycemia, lethargy, and seizures. Prognosis varies depending on the extent of the tumor and response to treatment. This study describes the follow-up, diagnosis, and therapeutic management of two cases of insulinoma in ferrets. Clinical signs of reported animals varied according to the severity and duration of hypoglycemia. Presumptive diagnosis was based on clinical signs, hematological monitoring (evidenced by hypochromic anemia), biochemical analysis (increased alanine aminotransferase enzyme and hypoglycemia), and imaging exams (hepatomegaly and splenomegaly in one case of this study). Treatment varied according to the intensity of clinical signs, but both cases resulted in death. Regular veterinary follow-up and early detection are important to improve animal quality of life.