January, 2004
by Brenda Hunter
Lack of energy, vomiting and weight loss in dogs may be symptoms of a number of common disorders; however, they can also be early signs of Canine Addison's Disease (hypoadrenocorticism). Because it is so easily confused with many other diseases and frequently remains undiagnosed until the dog collapses from weight loss, weakness or dehydration, Canine Addison's Disease is often referred to as "The Great Pretender." If left untreated, the disease can be critical; even fatal.
Canine Addison's Disease occurs when a dog's adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones and other chemicals that help regulate many bodily functions, such as metabolism, blood pressure and stress response. While it is not contagious, it is not fully understood why dogs develop Addison's. The most likely cause is genetic; however, other disorders, and trauma or extreme stress could also be contributing factors.
Studies have found that 70% to 86% of dogs with Canine Addison's Disease are female and that the dogs most often affected are between 4 and 7 years old. Some breeds seem to be affected more commonly than others. These breeds include West Highland White Terriers, Wheaten Terriers, Great Danes, Portuguese Water Spaniels, Rottweilers, and Standard Poodles.
Some of the most common signs a pet owner may observe in a dog with Canine Addison's Disease include:
lack of energy
weakness
vomiting
diarrhea
weight loss
dehydration
Less frequent signs include:
bloody vomit or stool
excessive thirst or urination
loss of appetite
hair loss
shaking and tremors
If your dog shows any of these signs, consult a veterinarian at once. Chances are, your dog does not have Addison's, but veterinarians generally use laboratory tests to confirm the diagnosis of Canine Addison's Disease. These may include various blood and urine tests. Even then, Canine Addison's Disease may escape diagnosis because the results of the laboratory tests may be similar to those in dogs with kidney failure.
The ACTH stimulation test provides one of the most accurate and reliable tests for diagnosing Canine Addison's Disease. For this test, the veterinarian collects blood samples before and after giving the patient an injection of a hormone to see how the dog's body responds.
Most Veterinarians will treat Canine Addison's Disease with a medication that replaces the hormones that the adrenal glands can no longer produce. Today, the only medication approved by the FDA for treating Canine Addison's Disease is PERCORTEN-V (desoxycorticosteronepivalate).
copyright Suzanne Renaud
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