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I was very concerned at the extreme pain that Gizmo was
experiencing and the very abnormal appearance of the regional
anatomy which was both badly swollen and very roughened.
Cancer was definitely in the frame and Gizmo was scheduled
for a surgical biopsy after a period of antibiotics and
anti-inflammatories.
Fortunately, the pathologist was able to report that no
cancer was evident and that the symptoms were due to a combination
of infection, abscess and fibrous adhesions.
Several months of medication helped to control the symptoms
but were unsuccessful at clearing the infection completely.
Residual pockets of infection remained in the anal (scent)
glands and it was clear that the only way to cure Gizmo
was to surgically remove the anal glands to finally resolve
the infection.
Gizmo's owners were obviously very concerned at the prospect
of surgery especially when there were no guarantees of complete
success. The pros and cons have to be considered with the
potential for significant improvement a realistic aim. With
the possibility of permanent rectal strictures having disastrous
consequences for Gizmo, surgery had a more attractive prospect.
Fortunately, for both Gizmo and his owner, several months
later surgery has been a complete success and he is now
completely pain free - although after months of probing
examinations I am sure I can still see his eyes water when
ever he enters my consulting room!
Terry
Dunne BVMS, Cert SAO, MRCVS
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