Tumors and pictures!

[Ichigo]

I rarely do go in here, it's just too big a forum! I'd probably get lost in the Too Cute Pictures Of American Ratties part

Anyways, I am writing a (norwegian) article on mammary tumors (like breast cancer) and I was having trouble finding any pictures to add. I have tons of pictures of rats with tumors, and without, but none of the actual tumor itself (removed from the rat that is). I would also appreciate pictures of rats with VERY large tumors if any of you have gotten some rescues in a bad state perhaps...

Does anybody in here have some I could use?

In my article I describe the properties of the tumor, and how it is removed. I have also included a paragraph for those who choose not to remove it. What are your views on that point? When is it no longer acceptable to keep a rat with a large tumor alive? When is it not recommended to perform a surgery?

Also I am really interested in ways to reduce the risk of mammary tumors. I have read that healthy, low-protein, low-fat food is the best way, is this right?


Thank you for any responses :joy:
Aurora + 3 lovely lice infected rats :gaah:

 

[xxchelle]

The BEST way to prevent mammary tumors in females: Spay them! That decreases their risk of getting mammary tumors to almost none

 

[jorats]

The best and really only way like chelle has already said it spaying.
I've had loads of females spayed and have had very low incidence of mammary tumours.
Mammary tumours in rats are not the same as in humans. In rats they are almost always benign. A lot of the drugs used on women, actually don't work that well on rats.
I do have a picture of a very large tumour on a rat but he's a male. It might still be a mammary tumour but I never had it biopsied.
The only reason I wouldn't have a tumour removed is the health of the rat and unfortunately, finances. Although since having all my girls spayed,(doesn't matter the age) I haven't dealt with a mammary tumour in years.

 

[jorats]

Oh just remembered an article that mentioned sugar increasing tumour growth. I wish I could remember which article it was.

 

[Ichigo]

Ok, I'll definetely put the part about spaying in the article, though it is not common to spay or neuter rats in Norway. And I think that the article about sugar increasing the risk is probably right. Unhealthy diet in general, and overweight is one of the reasons they develop tumors :thumbup:

I really would love some pics though, have any of you seen a picture, or remember one that I could ask to borrow?

 

[Cigar]

If you haven't already visited http://www.ratguide.com definitely pay them a visit. They often have pictures when describing particular cases that rat owners have sent in to share knowledge. This one was the most shocking for me.. http://ratguide.com/health/figures/mamm ... gure_3.php

 

[Ichigo]

I know, that one is really disturbing... But I can't find who took the picture and owns the copyright.

mailed these guys though http://www.lbah.com/rats/rat_mammary_tumor.htm

 

[lilspaz68]

I have pictures I can send. Remind me tonight? I have pics of before and during and after surgery as well