Endocrine III Flashcards
What is the function of aldosterone?
- helps to maintain fluid volume
- maintains potassium homeostasis
- Increases blood pressure
How does aldosterone increase the blood pressure?
Increases Sodium/ Chloride reabsorption and Potassium excretion
What are four things that could cause spontaeous adrenal gland atrophy/ destruction
- Can be idiopathic
- Immune mediated
- Caused by inflammation
- Adrenal haemorrage
What does hypoadrenocorticism cause?
a decrease in cortisol production but also a decrease in aldosterone production
What hormones from the adrenal gland are vital for life?
Any adrenocortical hormones e.g
* Cortisol
* Aldosterone
* Androgens
What is ‘typical’ hypoadrenocorticism?
a lack of mineralcorticoids and glucocorticoids
What is atypical hypoadrenocorticism?
A lack of glucocorticoids only
What is the typical presentation for addisons disease?
- Lethargy
- Anorexia
- Vomiting
- Weakness
- Diarrhoea
- Abdominal pain
How can you test for addisons disease in adults?
- screen test for the basal cortisol levels
- do a diagnostic test for ACTH
What is the effect of dexamethasone?
Similiar effects to cortisol but can also supress ACTH and therefore cortisol production
What is the treatment for hypoadrenocorticism?
May need fluid therapy
glucocorticoids may also be needed initially
What is conns syndrome also known as?
Hyperaldosteronism
What is hyperaldosteronism?
A disorder in which the adrenal gland releases too much aldosterone into the blood
What does hyperaldosteronism mean for potassium?
hypokalaemia or low potassium levels
What animals is Hyperaldosteronism most common in?
Middle aged to older cats
