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Find out more about your dogs
Cushing's Disease (hyperadrenocorticism) is a very common disorder in older dogs, and is often mistaken for the ageing process itself. Caused by the harmful effects of raised levels of cortisol (a corticosteroid hormone) on a dog's organs, it results in weight gain, hair loss, a loss of bladder control and skin disorders.
There may be a number of factors:
Your veterinarian will conduct a number of tests to diagnose Cushing's Disease and to work out its cause. The tests may include urine tests and several types of blood tests, some of which may require your dog to stay at the veterinary clinic for the day. Imaging may also be done: x-rays, ultrasound and even CT scans or MRIs.
Treatment is dictated by the severity of the clinical signs, the dog's general state of health, and also the cause of the excess cortisol.
For pituitary-dependent Cushing's disease, oral medication is commonly administered to the dog to inhibit the function of the adrenal gland in producing and releasing cortisol. Regular blood tests every few months are required to monitor response to the medication. The medication will be required for life. If an adrenal tumour is the cause, medication may be used, but surgery can also be performed to remove the tumour.
If excess corticosteroid administration is the cause, tapering down and possibly off the corticosteroid drug should resolve the condition.
In all cases, additional supportive therapies may be required.
Depending on the cause, severity and treatment, clinical signs may resolve themselves within days, or take up to several months after the commencement of treatment.
If left untreated, Cushing's Disease is progressive and has a poor prognosis. If controlled well on medication, the dog's prospects are good. However for dogs with advanced tumours, especially if they are causing neurological symptoms and there are metastases (spread of the tumour to other parts of the body) the prognosis is usually bleak.
The Merck Veterinary Manual
Hyperadrenocorticism: Cushing's Disease