Dormant internal bacteria? My daughter took her goldfish to the vet today. He has a couple of white patches (more like spots, but bigger than ich, and flat), plus a large bump developing on his side that just developed in the last 2 days. The bump is internal, and is still the color of the rest of the fish. The vet did not take any scrapings or do any tests, stating that the fish was too small (he is about 4.5" long and maybe 2" high). He said that it was a systemic bacterial infection that had layed dormant in the fish and probably had it when we got him (over 2 years ago), and was just now showing signs. Does this diagnosis sound correct? I have never heard of dormant bacterial infections, and always read that the bacteria is present in the water, and can then infect a fish who's immune system had been compromised.
He also could not recommend any meds, stating that the infection was terminal and it was unlikely that meds would help. (probably true)
Just wondering if my daughter got her $40 worth, or if we should look for another vet.
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