Hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing's Disease)

Question 1

What is Hyperadrenocorticism/ Cushing’s disease?

Answer 1

Any disease sate that results in the hyper secretion of Cortisol

Question 2

3 Disease states that result in hypersecretion of Cortisol

Answer 2

1. Pituitary lesion (excess ACTH)
2. Adrenal Tumor
3. Over medication with corticosteroids

Question 3

What obvious clinical signs would you see at first glance in a dog with Hypoadrenocorticism?

Answer 3

• Lethargy
• Excessive panting
• Abdominal enlargement + obesity
• Bilateral symmetrical alopecia
• Pyoderma

Question 4

What clinical signs would you uncover when taking a history and/ or PE?

Answer 4

• PU/PD
• Polyphagia
• Muscle weakness and lameness
• Pruritis

Question 5

Diagnosis: Which serum/ chem values may be elevated with Cushing’s Disease?

Answer 5

Increased ALP, ALT, Cholesterol, Glucose

Question 6

Diagnosis: Which serum/ chem values may be decreased with Cushing’s Disease?

Answer 6

Decreased BUN

Question 7

What serum characteristic may be present with Cushing’s disease?

Answer 7

Lipemia

Question 8

What ratio may be increased with Hypoadrenocorticism?

Answer 8

Increased Urine Cortisol: Creatinine

Question 9

What two specific tests may be included in the diagnosis of Cushing’s disease?

Answer 9

ACTH stim and Dexamethasone suppression test

Question 10

Surgical treatment

Answer 10

removal of one or both Adrenal Glands

Question 11

Medical management of Hypoadrenocorticism?

Answer 11

Life long drug therapy to decrease Adrenal gland Function. Trilostane/ Mitotane