CUSHING’S DISEASE
Cushing’s Disease is also termed “Hyperadrenocorticism.” It is a disorder characterized by excessive production of cortisol by the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands (small bean-shaped glands located near the kidneys) most often produce excessive amounts of cortisol because they are stimulated to do so by the “master hormone gland”-the pituitary gland, which is a pea-shaped gland at the base of the brain. 10-15% of dogs with Cushing’s Disease develop high cortisol levels because of and adrenal gland tumor which is producing the excess hormone.
DIAGNOSIS is confirmed by blood tests. There are several testing protocols that are used and more than one set of tests may be necessary to accurately diagnose the disease and localize the cause to either the pituitary or adrenal gland. A urine cortisol/creatinine ratio is a screening test using a urine sample that also may be done to help diagnose Cushing’s Disease.
SIGNS of the disease are a result of the high cortisol levels and include poor hair coat, hair loss, enlarged belly, increased thirst, increased urination, and increased appetite. Dogs with Cushing’s Disease are also more prone to infections and Diabetes mellitus.
TREATMENT is directed at decreasing the blood cortisol levels. In dogs with a tumor of the adrenal gland, surgery is required to remove the tumor. Dogs with overly active adrenal glands due to the over-stimulation by the pituitary gland are treated with a drug designed to shrink the size of the gland, thereby decreasing production of cortisol. The dose of these drugs must be adjusted to the particular needs of each individual pet. There are two different drugs that can be used. Lysodren is an older medication that suppresses adrenal gland function. A newer medication called Anipryl (selegiline hydrochloride) is also available.
Medical treatment only CONTROLS the disorder. It does not cure it. Therefore, treatment will be life long. Some patients require re-evaluation and possible additional treatment sometime in the future. Most patients, however, improve dramatically with regrowth of hair, and decreases in thirst, urination and appetite. General good health returns.
Individuals respond differently to the medication, and possible side effects vary depending on which medication is used to treat this disease. In most cases, close observation and repeated blood testing is a necessity. Under-dosage allows the condition to progress while over-dosage can result in a medical emergency due to a lack of blood cortisol, especially if Lysodren is used. It is VERY IMPORTANT for you to return on time for retesting and evaluation.
If your pet is being treated with Lysodren, please notify your veterinarian IMMEDIATELY if your pet shows any of the following signs:
- Change in appetite
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Listlessness
- Increase in water consumption
DO NOT ADMINISTER THE NEXT DOSE OF MEDICATION IF ANY OF THE ABOVE SIGNS ARE OBSERVED. CALL YOUR VETERINARIAN IMMEDIATELY.
