Aaron C. Rainer, D.V.M., M.P.H.
East Lake Veterinary Clinic
Killeen, TX
http://www.eastlakevet.org
One of the most common hormone related diseases in our dogs is called Cushing’s Disease. Also, known as hyperadrenocortisism, Cushing’s is caused by an excess of a hormone in the body called cortisol. Poodles, Dachshunds, Boston terriers, Boxers, and Beagles are reportably at increased risk.
Symptoms
This syndrome can cause a variety of symptoms in our dogs. Among those early symptoms may include increased appetite, increased urination, increased water consumption, pot bellied abdomen, hair loss, muscle weakness, dark spots on the skin, and calcium deposits under the skin. Later signs may progress to panting, difficulty breathing, and even sudden death.
Causes
There are three types that your veterinarian must try to differentiate if your dog is showing symptoms.
Pituitary Gland Microtumor (approximately 80-90% of cases)
Adrenal Gland Tumor (approximately 10-20% of cases)
Iatrogenic Causes (from long-term steroid use)
Diagnosis
In order to distinguish between the causes of this disease, your veterinarian may choose from a variety of tests that could include traditional blood testing (Complete Blood Count & Serum Chemistry Analysis), Endocrine Testing, Urine Testing, X rays, and Ultrasound.
Treatment
Treatment regimens are variable because of the wide variety of clinical signs that could be manifested and the differences in the major causes. Therefore, your veterinarian may choose a treatment that is dictated by the severity of clinical signs. Depending on the cause identified, a veterinarian may choose from a variety of treatments that could include medical therapy with frequent endocrine testing or even surgery.
Prognosis
Untreated Cushing’s disease yields a poor prognosis usually due to the progressiveness of the disease. Treated Cushing’s disease generally has a good prognosis with research that reports a median survival time that ranges from 1-6 years
Conclusion
If you are concerned and suspect that your dog is showing any of these signs, isolate your pet from other pets and consult your local veterinarian.
