Evaluation of serum estradiol concentrations in alopecic ferrets with adrenal gland tumors.

Seventeen ferrets were examined because of progressive bilaterally symmetric alopecia that was nonpruritic. Dermatologic and endocrinologic testing were used to determine the cause of the alopecia. Resting cortisol, testosterone, and thyroxin concentrations and results of ACTH stimulation tests were found to be within reference range limits established for this species. High serum estradiol concentrations were found to be a reliable indicator of adrenal cortical neoplasia in these ferrets.