A few months ago, I had to take my ball python to the vet for a skin problem. It had pink colors in the scales, and some dried, fungus-looking scales. I had suspected that the cause was prolonged exposure to damp substrate. The vet said it was a mild case of what would normally develop into "blister disease" and that with removal of the cause, it would clear up quickly. In addition, upon first noticing it, I put on an antibiotic ointment. All was well in a week.
Now I noticed a return of some of the syptoms. Now, though, there is a single blister. It's not to large, but is very bulbous, sticking out fairly far cause big white spaces between each scale. I had swithced from aspen to newspaper right after the first problem to eliminate excess moisture from sticking around. The cage has been kept dry and clean ever since. She has a small shallow water bowl that's not nearly sufficient for any soaking, so I don't see that as a problem. What makes this even more strange is that she appears to be entering a shed cycle (blue eyes.) It is my understanding that shedding can be brought on by sickness.
Anyway, I spent $50 at the last vet visit to have him tell me it was fine and healthy and just give me peace of mind. But now the blister has me concerned (assuming it is a blister. Does anyone know where I could find pictures of skin infections online?) I was thinking of waiting for this shed and see what happens, but I don't want the blister to burst and cause more problems. Just, please, someone give me some advice.
