Skippy has passed; 12 y/o Yorkie with likely pituitary tumor (Trilostane)

[molly muffin]

It is always good to have a plan and it does sound like you have one now for Skippy. The research portion is usually the most exhausting nad nerve wrecking.

Let us know what the ct scan shows and when they can expect to start radiation and how many radiation treatments there will be.

[Carole Alexander]

Hello everyone and thanks again for your kind words. I met the fourth person in Purdue's oncology department today while leaving Skippy for his CT. She asked that they also do a CT of his abdomen, otherwise they would have to do an ultrasound of it before radiation. They will not likely be able to tell if his macro is larger unless it is much larger as the CT cannot differentiate so accurately between swelling around the tumor and pituitary and the tumor itself. (At least I think that is what she said.) They do use the MRI and somehow integrate it with the CT for developing the radiation plan. It takes a week or more to develop the plan that will involve three treatments, likely next week. I quizzed her again about three versus ????. Again she mentioned his BP but then said that they are confident that they can get a good result with the three treatments. The conversation was a little like debating in English when all you speak is Spanish. Besides, at this point, I have surrendered in respect to recommended treatment. I simply don't know enough to have an informed opinion. I even said DNR regarding the anesthetic.

I can only hope that this experience is less grueling for Skippy than it is for me. My cortisol has skyrocketed. More soon.

[DoxieMama]

I can only hope that this experience is less grueling for Skippy than it is for me. My cortisol has skyrocketed. More soon.

Hugs. Remember to breathe.

[Whiskey's Mom]

Hugs from me too. With you in spirit. I'll be praying for both of you.

[Carole Alexander]

Four hours, $480, and an xray of Skippy's lungs; he has pneumonia! No CT. Thank you Cushing's. Purdue put him on Clavamox for two weeks. Then recheck, then a CT if he is okay, all stretched out for three more weeks. Cushing's is truly the gift that keeps on giving. The good news until this morning is he has been asymptomatic, no coughing, fever, vomiting, and diarrhea (thought to be caused by the Cabergoline). A few hours ago he declined chicken and kibble, became very agitated and has been panting and trembling. He may be nauseous as he can only settle for ten minutes at a time. Maybe the macro, the pneumonia? I think I need to call Purdue.

[Budsters Mom]

Sorry but I only have a second to post right now, so this will have to be short.

Unfortunately, all of the symptoms you describe below are common with a macro. When our pups are unable to settle, pain is often involved.

I am so very sorry.
Kathy

, became very agitated and has been panting and trembling. He may be nauseous as he can only settle for ten minutes at a time.

[Carole Alexander]

Called Purdue radiology who said dogs with aspiration pneumonia can deteriorate rapidly but I would have to take him in thru emergency medicine. Called local vet who is in surgery; left a message for a call back. Radiology suggested that I watch him today "for awhile". yKathy,
I know that it may be the macro as Clavamox does not have these side effects but I appreciate your feedback. Skippy has stopped pacing, trembling for the time being. I will watch and wait.

[liltara]

Oh my, poor Skippy

My dog, Cassidy (Mojo's sister) has a back condition and when it flares up she won't settle. It is so unsettling for me ...

I totally understand how you feel right now - prayers going out to you and Skippy for a pain-free day and some answers.

Please keep us posted.

[Carole Alexander]

Thank you Kathy. Skippy has quieted and trembling has stopped. I do fear it is the macro and I may have waited too long.

[Carole Alexander]

Thank you Liltara for your kind words. Unless it is a reaction to the anesthesia yesterday, it must be the macro. I'm not sure what I gain from taking him to a vet today. He is drinking, ate a little chicken and took his meds. Trembling and pacing has stopped. Wait and see.