Megaesophagus in nine ferrets

J Am Vet Med Assoc. 1994 Aug 1;205(3):444-7.

Abstract

Megaesophagus was diagnosed in 9 adult ferrets. Clinical history of the ferrets included regurgitation, difficulty in swallowing, partial anorexia, and lethargy. Cachexia, dehydration, weakness, and ptyalism were observed on physical examination. Radiography revealed the esophagus of each ferret to be dilated in the thoracic and cervical regions. Of 4 ferrets that had lymphocytopenia, 2 had concurrent leukopenia. Serum biochemical analysis revealed high activity of alanine transaminase (4 ferrets) and aspartate transaminase (3), and hypoglycemia (4). Treatment included administration of fluid, antibiotics, and agents directed against possible primary causes of megaesophagus. Treatments were ineffective, and all of the ferrets died or were euthanatized. All 6 ferrets that were submitted for necropsy had bronchopneumonia, hepatic lipidosis, mild esophagitis, and gastritis. The etiopathogenesis of megaesophagus in the ferrets was not determined.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Blood Chemical Analysis / veterinary
  • Esophageal Achalasia / blood
  • Esophageal Achalasia / diagnostic imaging
  • Esophageal Achalasia / therapy
  • Esophageal Achalasia / veterinary*
  • Esophagus / diagnostic imaging
  • Esophagus / pathology
  • Female
  • Ferrets*
  • Fluid Therapy / veterinary
  • Gastric Mucosa / pathology
  • Leukocyte Count / veterinary
  • Male
  • Radiography

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents