Cushing's Disease in Dogs
Cushing's disease in dogs is a condition where the adrenal cortex produces an excess of the hormone cortisol. It is a disorder that can lead to troublesome health problems. This condition not only occurs in dogs but can also affect other animals and even humans.
Causes of Cushing's disease in dogs
Cushing's disease in dogs, also known as Cushing's syndrome, is mainly diagnosed in middle-aged or older dogs. The disease occurs in two forms: the pituitary form and the adrenal form. The pituitary form is the most common, affecting about 85% of dogs with Cushing's disease. It is caused by a slowly growing tumor in the pituitary gland, a small gland located beneath the brain. This tumor produces large amounts of Adreno Cortico Tropic Hormone (ACTH). The excess of this hormone, which resembles the drug prednisone and is also called the stress hormone, causes all the symptoms. ACTH, in turn, causes the adrenal glands to produce too much cortisol. Cortisol is a glucocorticoid that converts proteins and fats into glucose, causing blood sugar levels to rise. Additionally, glucocorticoids play a significant role in the immune system and suppress inflammatory responses.
The other form of Cushing's disease in dogs is caused by a tumor in the adrenal gland itself. This also results in the production of large amounts of cortisol, which is harmful to the dog.
Symptoms of Cushing's disease in dogs
A dog suffering from this condition may experience one or more of the following symptoms:
- Increased eating and drinking
- Lethargy
- Frequent urination
- Excessive panting
- Swollen abdomen
- Hair loss and bald patches
- Skin problems
- Loss of muscle mass
- In females, absence of heat cycles
Treatment of Cushing's disease in dogs
If you suspect your dog has Cushing's disease, consult a veterinarian as soon as possible. They will perform tests to confirm the diagnosis. In the pituitary form, there is almost always a benign tumor in the pituitary gland that grows slowly. Surgically removing the pituitary gland offers the best long-term results, but this procedure is very costly.
In cases of an adrenal tumor, the affected adrenal gland can sometimes be surgically removed. The other adrenal gland is usually still healthy and takes over all normal functions, so no medication is needed after surgery. If surgery is not possible, the dog will receive medication that inhibits cortisol production. Dogs must take this medication daily for the rest of their lives. Increased drinking, eating, urination, and lethargy usually improve within two weeks, but it can take several months for the skin and coat to recover.
