Cushing's disease, also known as Cushing's syndrome or hyperadrenocorticism, is a condition in dogs caused by an overproduction of the hormone cortisol. Cortisol is produced by the adrenal glands, which are located near the kidneys, and its production is stimulated by the pituitary gland located at the base of the brain.
Types of Cushing's Disease
There are two types of Cushing’s disease:
- Adrenal-dependent Cushing’s disease: In this type, an adrenal gland overproduces cortisol due to the presence of an adrenal tumor.
- Pituitary-dependent Cushing’s disease: In this type, the adrenal glands overproduce cortisol because they are overstimulated by a tumor in the pituitary gland.
Signs and Symptoms
Cushing's disease in dogs can present with a variety of signs, including:
- Increased thirst and urination
- Voracious appetite
- Enlarged and sagging belly
- Hair loss (alopecia)
- Lethargy and weakness
- Panting
- Recurrent infections
Diagnosis
Diagnosing Cushing's disease can be challenging, especially in early stages. Several tests may be necessary to arrive at a diagnosis:
- Complete blood count (CBC), chemistry panel, and urinalysis: These tests evaluate the general health of the dog and help identify other potential health issues.
- Adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test: This test involves taking a blood sample, injecting the pet with ACTH, waiting for an hour, and then taking another blood sample. It is used to diagnose Cushing's disease in dogs.
- Low-dose dexamethasone suppression test (LDDST): This test takes about 8 hours and involves multiple blood samples after an injection of a steroid. It helps diagnose Cushing's disease and can sometimes determine the location of the problem (pituitary or adrenal).
- High-dose dexamethasone suppression test (HDDST): Similar to LDDST, this test uses a higher dose of dexamethasone and helps determine the location of the problem.
- Endogenous adrenocorticotrophic (ACTH) assay, or ACTH level: This test involves a single blood sample and helps determine the location of the problem.
- Radiographs, abdominal ultrasound, or CT scan: These imaging tests help visualize changes in other organs or evaluate the adrenal glands and pituitary gland.
Treatment
The treatment for Cushing's disease in dogs involves either medication to control cortisol overproduction by the adrenal glands or surgery to remove the abnormal adrenal gland. The choice of treatment depends on the location of the problem (pituitary or adrenal).
Regular follow-up visits and monitoring are essential to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and the well-being of the dog.
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