Cushing's disease in dogs, also known as hyperadrenocorticism, is an endocrine disorder characterized by the overproduction of the hormone cortisol by the adrenal glands. This excess cortisol disrupts normal body functions and leads to various symptoms and health issues
. There are two primary types of Cushing's disease in dogs:
- Pituitary-dependent Cushing's disease : This is the most common form, accounting for about 80-85% of cases. It is caused by a benign tumor on the pituitary gland (a small gland at the base of the brain) that produces excess adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). This hormone overstimulates the adrenal glands, causing them to produce too much cortisol
- Adrenal-dependent Cushing's disease : This form occurs when a tumor (benign or malignant) develops on one or both adrenal glands, directly causing excess cortisol production. This accounts for about 15-20% of cases
There is also iatrogenic Cushing's syndrome , which results from prolonged use of corticosteroid medications like prednisone, leading to excess cortisol levels caused by the medication rather than tumors
. Symptoms of Cushing's disease in dogs include:
- Increased thirst and urination
- Increased appetite
- Potbelly appearance
- Thin skin and hair loss
- Excessive panting
- Reduced activity or lethargy
- Skin infections and calcified skin lumps
- Sometimes behavioral changes due to hormone imbalance
Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to measure hormone levels and imaging (ultrasound, CT, or MRI) to identify tumors on the pituitary or adrenal glands
. Treatment depends on the type of Cushing's disease but often involves medications to reduce cortisol production. Surgery may be an option in some adrenal tumor cases. With proper management, dogs can have a good quality of life despite the disease
. In summary, Cushing's disease in dogs is a hormonal disorder caused mainly by tumors affecting the pituitary or adrenal glands, leading to excess cortisol and a range of clinical signs that require veterinary diagnosis and treatment.
