The persistent panting, drinking, and weight gain that may be more than just a nuisance.
Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism) is an endocrine disease caused by an excess production of adrenal steroids, most commonly cortisol. This can be secondary to excessive stimulation from the pituitary gland, or directly from the adrenal gland. This syndrome results in classic clinical signs that prompt a medical work up.
Clinical Signs
This disease is most commonly diagnosed in middle to older aged dogs. Beagles, boxers, dachshunds, German shepherds, poodles, and terriers are overrepresented. It occurs very rarely in cats.
Common clinical signs include:
- increased thirst and urination
- increased appetite
- excessive panting
- lethargy
- pot belly appearance
- weight gain
- hair loss
40% of dogs that get Cushing’s syndrome get SARDS: Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome (SARDS) is a disease in dogs causing sudden blindness. It can occur in any breed, but female dogs may be predisposed. Approximately 4000 cases are seen in the United States annually.
For the original article please visit: https://asgvets.com/cushings-disease-in-dogs-an-overview-of-this-difficult-to-diagnose-syndrome/?sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjm97i7_u7ZAhVN1IMKHZJ4AtsQ9QEIEjAA
