We just returned home from the Cincinnati Reptile specialist and he was very happy with how Neato looked. The wound on Neato tongue from the surgery was just a tiny dot so it has healed great. University of Tennessee faxed him the biopsy results. Here is what the biopsy report said it called the growth a "benign lingial polyp" .
It said this is a benign proliferation of cells containing cytoplasmic mucin globules. This may represent mucus from salivary gland. Respiratory tract origin was also considered however cilia are absent. No infectious agents are present.
I'm not sure I understand what that means other than it wasn't cancer. The specialist doesn't know why Neato produces more saliva than normal and hopes it doesn't return. I'm supposed to watch Neato for signs he has another mouth infection and/or too much saliva in his mouth and beard.
Specialist said there is no swelling, redness or any other sign of radiation side effects on Neato's eyelid. He was surprised how well Neato had handled everything and that he had actually gained a little weight. Neato no longer has to take the antibiotic and should not have to go back to the vet for a while unless something happens I'm concerned about.
So it was a great vet visit with good news for a change.
Just a small update for anyone following Neato's story:
We just returned from a recheck at our regular vet. She like the specialist was very happy with how Neato looked and how he came through his radiation treatment and his tongue surgery. She really feels Neato has came through the radiation without suffering any acute side effects that show up just after treatments. No one knows if he will have any long term side effects that could come later. So for now Neato is doing great and only needs to return to the vet if i notice something or have any concerns. Neato is such a little fighter to handle all he has been through since September. I am very lucky.
Hey, Lynn -- after being thru the last 3 weeks of Xena's life, I am a firm believer that if she would have been with her original family, she would not have even survived her surgery... The love and companionship of us makes all the diff in the world, and Neato knows how much you love him, and that he is one of your kids... THAT has made all the difference in his fight I am so happy he's doing great -- and I hope its clear sailing from here on for you guys!!!