What's wrong with my golden puffer?

[Denver_Josh]

i could really use some help identifying what's going on with my puffer. I've had him for about two years and he is about 10" long. He usually devours krill, but about two months ago unnoticed a decrease in appetite. I noticed a couple nodules on him 4 days ago, just got back from the hospital (new baby!) and they are now very large and concerning. Any help with identifying/treating would be greatly appreciated.

He's in a 400 gallon tank with another 200 gallons in filtration, I run 2 reef Octopus Regal 300 skimmers, 3 -40 watt lifegard aquatics UV sterilizers and BRS carbon. I change about 100 gallons once a month.

 

[sc50964]

I think those are tumors. I'm afraid that they are not curable. Sorry.

 

[melypr1985]

I'm sorry, I'm not entirely sure what those are. I would advise you to wait for humble to chime in of course. Personally, I would attempt antibiotic treatment, though the likelihood of that helping is low.

 

[4FordFamily]

I actually think those do look like tumors, but agree it may be worth trying to treat an infection..

 

[Humblefish]

Do you know anyone with a microscope? Taking a small culture sample of the affected area and then examining that under a scope might provide more definitive answers. I could probably figure it out if you would upload some photos.

Treating with antibiotics would be a shot in the dark, but might work if this is only an infection: https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/antibiotics.283711/