What is Cushing Disease or Cushing's Disease?
Cushing’s disease is a slow progressing disorder that is more common in smaller dog breeds. Basically, there is an increase of glucocorticoids in the dog’s body. Glucocorticoids are hormones that regulate protein, carbohydrate and fat metabolism. In addition, these hormones play a vital role in aiding the body against allergic reactions by supporting the cell membranes responsible for such functions. The overabundance of glucocorticoids can potentially poison the animal which may lead to death.
Symptoms
Typically, symptoms of this disease will appear 1 to 6 years prior to actual diagnosis. These symptoms include:
- Hair loss
- Thin skin
- Increased appetite
- Enlargement of the abdominal area
- Water consumption increase (most common symptom)
- Reoccurring urinary tract infections
Causes
In essence, there are three forms of this disease. The cause of Cushing’s disease depends on which type of the disorder is present. For example:
- Pituitary dependent hyperadrenocorticism (PDH): Most common case of Cushing’s disease in dogs. Basically, PDH is an increase of the hormones that galvanize the adrenal gland in order to produce more glucocorticoids. The hormones that stimulate the adrenal gland to produce more glucocorticoids are referred to as ACTH hormones. Moreover, the cause of the increase of ACTH hormones is typically due to a tumor of the pituitary gland.
- Adrenal-based hyperadrenocorticism : This form is less common in dogs. Basically, there is an increase in glucocorticoids within the adrenal glands. This is typically caused by adrenal tumors.
- Iatrogenic: This form is caused by giving the dog high doses of steroids.
Treatment and Prevention
There are a variety of treatment options available for this disease depending on which form of the disorder is present. For instance, there are several types of medications that can be taken orally such as:
- Trilostane
- Ketoconazole
- Lysodren
- L-deprenyl
In cases with tumors, surgery can be performed if medication is not effective. In order to prevent this disease from progressing, it is imperative to notice the symptoms of this disorder early in the dog’s life. Always consult with your vet regarding any further information pertaining to this disease as well.
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