The chance of survival of a dog with Cushing's syndrome. Biochemical aspects of the treatment of hyperadrenocorticism in dogs

Cushing's disease (or hyperadrenocorticism) is one of the most common diseases of the endocrine system in dogs, associated with an excessive amount of the hormone cortisol in the body.

The endocrine system is a collection endocrine organs(glands) that produce hormones, including cortisol, which is responsible for carbohydrate metabolism in the body and the breakdown of proteins. Excessive levels of cortisol in the blood impede the metabolic process, which leads to gastrointestinal disorders, hypertension and a number of other complications.

In the photo, the dog is sick with Cushing's disease.

At normal operation endocrine system, the pituitary gland produces the hormone ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone), which stimulates the production of glucocorticoids by the adrenal cortex. A large amount of these hormones suppresses ACTH, which allows you to maintain a balance of substances in the body. If the pituitary or adrenal glands are disturbed, the production of glucocorticoids becomes excessive and uncontrolled. There is a modeling of the biochemical picture corresponding to severe stress, the body has to deal with negative effects that are actually absent. The consequence of this is the depletion of energy reserves, disruption of metabolic processes, disruption of the work of all organs.

There are several forms of hyperadrenocorticism, the isolation of which is due to the cause of the development of the disease.

Cushing's disease occurs spontaneously due to a tumor in the pituitary gland (the gland that controls all hormone production in the body). Due to a malfunction of the pituitary gland, excessive production of the hormone ACTH occurs. This is the most common form of the disease, diagnosed in 80% of cases.

There are three forms of this disease.

Cushing-Itsenko syndrome or glucosteroma

Cushing-Itsenko syndrome occurs as a result of a tumor of the adrenal cortex, which develops due to their dysfunction. The consequence of this is excessive production of glucocorticoids.

Iatrogenic Itsenko-Cushing's syndrome in dogs

One of the causes of hyperadrenocorticism can be the excessive administration of hormonal drugs (glucocorticosteroids), such as prednisolone and dexamethasone, in the treatment of inflammation or allergic reactions, as well as a number of other diseases.

This form of the disease is acquired. The symptoms of iatrogenic syndrome are the same as those of true disease, but they usually disappear after stopping the use of drugs.

Important! With iatrogenic syndrome, it is necessary to gradually stop the use of the drug that caused complications, gradually reducing daily dosage.

Animals at risk for morbidity

Most often subject to this disease, castrated and sterilized dogs.

Cushing's syndrome can occur in any breed of dog, but the following are most at risk:

poodles;
beagles;
boxers;
labrador retrievers;
taxes;
German Shepherds;
Scottish terriers.

Cushing's disease due to a pituitary tumor is most common in small dogs, with 75% of cases in dogs weighing less than 20 kilograms.
/ are more likely to be affected by this disease.

Veterinarians do not find a connection between the disease and the sex of the animal, both males and females are equally susceptible to the disease.

At what age do dogs get Cushing's syndrome?

Cushing's disease most commonly affects middle-aged and older dogs. Average age animals suffering from this disease - 10 years. However, there are cases of the disease in younger dogs.

Clinical symptoms of the disease

Cushing's disease can develop slowly and affect a wide range of systems in the body, so the symptoms of the disease may not be immediately noticeable and vary greatly in different patients. The most common symptoms are associated with the urinary system and skin conditions. On the early stage The disease may present with only one or two symptoms, making it difficult to diagnose.

Increased thirst and hair loss are the most common symptoms of this disease.

Possible symptoms of the disease:

increased thirst and increased urination is the most common symptom. The animal begins to drink twice as much as usual;
increased hunger. It is also a fairly common symptom of the disease;
enlargement and sagging of the abdomen. Associated with muscle atrophy abdominal cavity due to the transition of body fat to the abdomen;
hair loss. The reason why hosts most often turn to veterinarian. Baldness begins on the sides and abdomen, eventually the hair is retained only on the head and limbs;
dyspnea;
obesity or, on the contrary, increased loss of subcutaneous fat;
fat deposits on the neck and shoulders;
lethargy;
insomnia;
muscle weakness;
lack of estrus in females, reduction of testes in males;
darkening (pigmentation) and peeling of the skin;
the appearance of acne on the skin;
thin skin, prone to injury and slow to heal;
fragile blood vessels susceptible to slight damage;
recurrent urinary tract infections;
calcification;
fading of coat color;
desire to lie down on a cool surface.

With a pituitary tumor, the development of the disease is usually slower (from several months to several years) than with an adrenal tumor.

Dog with Cushing's disease

Diagnosis of Cushing's Disease in Dogs

The veterinarian should conduct a complete physical examination, complete a general and biochemical blood test and urinalysis. For Cushing's disease, these tests should show:

an increase in the number of leukocytes or platelets;
increase alkaline phosphatase;
increase in ALT (liver enzymes);
increased cholesterol levels;
decrease in urea nitrogen;
increased content blood sugar (not as high as in diabetics);
short specific gravity urine.

Important! It is necessary to provide the veterinarian with as much information as possible, describing in detail the state of health of the dog and the symptoms of the disease.

The following tests are done to confirm Cushing's disease:

urinalysis for cortisol/creatinine ratio;
low dose dexamethasone suppression test. In a healthy dog, cortisol levels should decrease significantly after 8 hours;
ACTH stimulation test. In a dog with Cushing's syndrome, cortisol levels will rise significantly after administration of ACTH.

A veterinarian, before making a diagnosis, conducts a series of studies. Takes a general and biochemical blood test.

Excess levels of the hormone adrenocorticotropin will indicate Cushing's disease. Further tests are carried out to determine the affected organ. To do this, a high-dose dexamethasone suppression test is performed, X-ray and ultrasound are done. Sometimes an MRI may be needed.

The method of treatment of hyperadrenocorticism is selected depending on which organ was affected, as well as on the degree of damage and general condition animal.

Both with a pituitary tumor and with a tumor of the adrenal glands, two types of treatment are possible - therapeutic and surgical.

During surgery, in both forms of the disease, the adrenal glands are removed (with a tumor of the adrenal glands - affected, with a tumor of the pituitary gland, both adrenal glands). Removal of the adrenal glands requires further lifelong hormone supplementation.

Pituitary tumors in dogs are not operated on due to the high mortality of animals and serious complications after surgery. If the tumor is large enough (greater than 1 cm), the dog may begin to show neurological symptoms In this case, radiation therapy is prescribed.

Most veterinarians recommend therapeutic treatment.

Many veterinarians try to avoid surgery and recommend therapeutic treatment, which involves taking medications that help control cortisol levels in the blood. The most frequently prescribed:

Mitotane (Lisodren) - used in the pituitary form of the disease. The drug destroys the cells of the adrenal glands, thus achieving control over the level of corticosteroids, despite the fact that the pituitary gland continues to produce excessive amounts of ACTH. The drug is given for life;

Note! Mitotane (Lisodren) can cause serious side effects, so treatment with this drug should only be carried out under the constant supervision of a veterinarian.

Trilostane (Vetoryl) is suitable for the treatment of Cushing's disease associated with an adrenal tumor. The principle of action is similar to that of mitotane;
L-deprenyl (Anipryl) - the effectiveness of the drug is questionable.

Drug treatment of Cushing's disease in Russia is complicated by the very high price of drugs and their insufficient presence on the market, most often the drugs have to be ordered abroad.

Cushing's disease tends to occur in older dogs and is often mistaken for signs of aging. Although in most cases dogs cannot be completely cured, their quality of life can be improved if the disease is detected as early as possible. Therefore, it is important for dog owners to monitor the health of their pets and consult a veterinarian in case of any ailment.

Cushing's syndrome is an endocrinological pathology caused by an elevated blood level of one of two hormones:

cortisol produced by the adrenal glands;
the hormone ACTH, which is produced by the pituitary gland.

Normally, cortisol is responsible for the regulation of blood pressure, blood clotting and reduces inflammation. It is often referred to as the stress hormone. AT critical situations a powerful release of cortisol promotes instant mobilization of forces.

The functions of the adrenal glands are closely related to the pituitary gland. It is also a gland, but is located in the brain. For correct operation Adrenal glands in the pituitary gland produce adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which inhibits the concentration of cortisol.

The reason for this pathological condition is an excessive amount of cortisol in the blood of an animal with a constant long-term effect on the body.

Normally, it promotes blood clotting, regulates blood pressure, and has an anti-inflammatory effect. In critical situations, its powerful release into the blood allows you to quickly mobilize the body.

The work of these endocrine glands in turn depends on the influence of the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is also a gland that is located in the brain and regulates the functioning of the whole organism.

For the adrenal glands to function properly, the pituitary gland secretes adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), allowing you to maintain normal cortisol levels. Violation of this interdependent system leads to the emergence of this endocrinopathy.

Other names for pathology: Itsenko-Cushing's syndrome, hyperadrenocorticism, hypercortisonemia.

Causes

Genetically determined causes are not well understood. The rest are usually divided into the following forms:

Cushing's disease (spontaneous hyperadrenocorticism) caused by pituitary adenoma or hyperplasia;
(glucosteroma) caused by an adenoma or carcinoma of one or two adrenal glands;
iatrogenic hyperadrenocorticism, may occur with excessive intake of hormones from the outside (long-term treatment with corticosteroid drugs).

Possible consequences

Due to the high concentration of cortisol in the blood, the animal's body is in a state of constant readiness to withstand adverse effects. This leads to rapid wear of the body, depletion of its energy reserves and early old age.

Risk group

Cushing's syndrome is a pathology due to which the pituitary gland secretes cortylosis in large quantities. Cortilosis is the most important hormone, it is this hormone that exists in order to fight stress. Physiological mechanism cortilosis is very difficult and long to describe, since there are a huge number of different reactions. You just need to know, thanks to cortilosis, the dog can resist negative impacts external environment.

What is the problem if this hormone is one of the most important for life. For a dog, this amount of cortilosis excretion exceeds all norms. Cortilose is released so much that even an elephant would have enough of that amount of such a hormone. The pituitary gland is obliged to control this hormone, but that's just the point, for some inexplicable reason, it simply stops paying attention to the huge secretions of cortylosis in the dog's body, as a result of which the dog simply begins to languish. If your pet has Cushing's syndrome, then the pet will have to face the following problems:

These are not even the main problems of Cushing's syndrome. The main problem is that many dogs simply die much sooner than they should. For example, many animals barely survive to three years with this syndrome, it is also worth noting that the body of a dog that is 12 years old will practically not differ in its state from the body of a dog that died from Cushing's syndrome. With Cushing's syndrome, the entire body of the dog begins to work faster and faster, thereby exhausting all its biological reserves.

It can be said that this syndrome simply slowly depletes the body of the dog, thereby killing it. And the saddest thing is that those cases are considered a miracle when pets live to the age of four. In general, Cushing's syndrome wears out the dog's body at a tremendous rate.

Cushing's syndrome in dogs or hyperadrenocorticism is one of the most common diseases of the endocrine system in dogs (it is rare in cats) that occurs when the hormone cortisol is produced excessively by the adrenal glands (located in the abdominal cavity) or adrenocorticotropic hormone by the pituitary gland (located in the brain). Therefore, there are three types of Cushing's syndrome in dogs:

Pituitary hyperadrenocorticism - associated with increased secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) by the pituitary gland and in most cases the cause of this is a neoplasm this body(usually pituitary adenoma);
Primary adrenal hyperadrenocorticism - due to a unilateral or bilateral tumor of the adrenal glands, sometimes a structural change - adrenal hyperplasia, which occurs for an unknown reason;
Iatrogenic hyperadrenocorticism is a secondary change that results from long-term treatment with high doses of a hormonal drug from the glucocorticoid group.

Cushing's syndrome can occur in any breed of middle to older dogs, but it is more common in poodles, dachshunds, small terriers, and boxers. It has also been found that adrenal tumors are more common in large breeds dogs weighing more than 20 kg. Both males and females can get Cushing's syndrome.

Sheltie dog with Cushing's syndrome

This disease manifests itself in dogs after their pituitary gland begins to produce cortisol in excess. This hormone is very important. Normally, it is a means of protection against stress. In emergency situations, thanks to him, the animal's body is fully mobilized to protect itself from the external environment.

That is, the body needs cortisol, but not in the quantities that are produced by the gland in Cushing's syndrome. The pituitary gland ceases to control the process of hormone production. As a result, the animal develops various disorders:

Disorders of the psyche and behavior.
constant thirst and frequent urination. At the same time, urine has Strong smell that it is almost impossible to be near her.

In severe cases, this disease can lead to the death of a pet. Cause lethal outcome lies in the wear and tear of the body, long time in a state of full mobilization.

At the autopsy of young animals that died from Cushinoga syndrome, veterinarians note that the condition of the internal organs is equivalent to dogs that died of old age.

Veterinary medicine distinguishes several varieties of the syndrome, each of which is easily diagnosed, but requires special complex treatment and prevention.

Cushing-Itsenko disease

It arises as a result of a primary lesion of the stem and subcortical (hypothalamus, limbic zone of the brain) formations. If a primary lesion not noticed in time, then the pathological foci spread to the adrenal cortex, the pituitary gland.

Hypercortisolism develops. Examination of dogs reveals a basophilic pituitary adenoma, which intensively produces adrenocorticotropic hormone. This entails the rapid growth of the adrenal cortex and, as a result, increased production of cortisol.

Cushing-Itsenko syndrome or glucosteroma

As a result of adrenal dysfunction, dogs can develop a hormonally active (intensely growing) tumor of the adrenal cortex. It is formed from the fascicular zone and promotes excessive secretion of hormones. Mainly glucocorticoids. With this form of the syndrome, a more pronounced secretion (production) of the hormone is observed. It causes a prolonged and rapid growth of the adrenal cortex, the growth of an adenoma, which, if left untreated, can develop into cancer.

The formation of a pituitary adenoma is the cause of Cushing's disease in 15% of cases, the development of a tumor in 80%. However, about half of neoplasms in dogs are benign.

Iatrogenic Itsenko-Cushing's syndrome in dogs

Acquired form of the disease. It occurs during long-term treatment of the animal with drugs containing corticosteroids. They are prescribed to suppress a fairly large number of diseases in dogs, and therefore the symptoms of the disease are less pronounced.

We have already found out that Cushing's disease is the result of excessive production of cortisol or ACTH. Moreover, only prolonged high content hormones in the blood. But why does cortisol begin to be produced in excess? There are two reasons:

The appearance of a tumor (adenoma) in the pituitary gland, which begins to produce excess amount ACTH. Being in close relationship, the adrenal glands begin an intensive synthesis of the hormone cortisol. This form of the disease is called pituitary hyperadrenocorticism and occurs in 80-90% of dogs. Usually, the neoplasm develops slowly and does not make itself felt for years.
The formation of a hormonally active tumor (glucosteroma) in the adrenal cortex, which leads to the growth of glandular tissue and increased production of cortisol. This form of the syndrome is called "primary adrenal hyperadrenocorticism" and occurs in 10-15% of dogs. As a rule, a tumor in the adrenal glands is malignant and develops quite quickly.

These two causes are related to spontaneous hypercortisolism. However, there is another one that leads to the occurrence of this disease. Iatrogenic syndrome, which occurs due to prolonged treatment of the animal with hormonal drugs. For example, Dexafort, Prednisolone, Metipred, Dexamethasone, etc.

The cause of the failure is a tumor of the adrenal glands or the pituitary gland (both malignant and benign). In 85% of cases, Cushing's syndrome is observed in dogs precisely because of a pituitary tumor.

Cushing's syndrome may present in

any breed, but most often affected

boxers,

Mostly dogs older than seven years of age are ill.

What causes hyperadrenocorticism? This is perhaps the most popular question that dog owners ask veterinarians. Even the vets don't know real reason this disease, which is why it cannot be cured, because there are a huge number of inconsistencies, because of which the doctors could not figure it out.

The only feature that doctors have noticed in the study of Cushing's syndrome is that cats almost never experience such a disease, for them this case is one in a million, while dogs experience Cushing's syndrome quite often. Why cats constantly bypass this disease, while the pituitary gland in dogs cannot control the release of the hormone in large quantities, the doctors could not understand.

Despite the fact that scientists have been trying for many years to identify possible reasons development of the disease until their complete clarification is still far away. In some cases, veterinarians simply cannot determine the cause of the failure of the pituitary gland.

Nevertheless, scientists have established several of the most common causes of pathology:

Hormonally active tumors in the pituitary gland.
Glandular tumors affecting the adrenal cortex.
Improper drug treatment using steroid drugs.
Significant age of the animal.
Overweight.
genetic reasons.

Scientists have also identified several forms of this disease. Division by form is determined by the causes of the development of pathology.

Cushing's disease. In dogs, the symptoms of this pathology are manifested when tumors appear in the pituitary gland: adenomas or hyperplasia. This form of the disease is the most common and is detected in 80% of cases.
Cushing's syndrome. It is also often called a glucosteroma. The cause of this pathology is dysfunction of the adrenal cortex caused by a tumor. Because of it, a large amount of glucocorticoids are released into the blood, which disrupt the functioning of the pituitary gland.
Itsenko-Cushing's iatrogenic syndrome. This form of pathology develops as a reaction to the excessive introduction of hormonal agents such as prednisolone and dexamethasone into the animal's body. Usually these medicines are prescribed for dogs with severe colds and allergic reactions. This type of disease quickly disappears after the drug is discontinued.

If the symptoms of Cushing's disease appeared after the start of treatment with hormonal agents, then the supply of these drugs should not be abruptly interrupted. It is necessary to gradually reduce the daily dosage of the drug until the symptoms disappear completely.

Causes of development and varieties

When studying this disease, researchers tried to understand what varieties are there and whether they exist at all? There are indeed varieties of Cushing's syndromes, and it also turned out that sometimes the owners are provocateurs of this syndrome. What is the first variety, because of what does it happen?

It is also worth noting that there are even predispositions for this disease, that is, those breeds of dogs in which such a disease occurs most often. This list includes 3 breeds: terriers, boxers and dachshunds.

If one of the readers of this article has something to do with medicine, then they can say that a syndrome is a complex of signs, symptoms. They often vary from case to case. Based on this, scientists have long suggested that Cushing's pathology can be divided into several categories. The researchers were right, as indeed there are different types. Let's look at them in a little more detail.

First, iatrogenic Cushing's syndrome in dogs. What it is? This is a vivid example of the fact that the care of the owners can sometimes go sideways for the pets themselves. The fact is that this term refers to a disease that has arisen due to an overabundance of ... hormones. More precisely, those of them that are similar to endogenous (internal) cortisol. Where can they even come from, if the adrenal glands of the organism itself are “responsible” for the production of such substances?

And the thing is that synthetic substances of this nature are part of many hormonal drugs funds. With them, good owners, without consulting a veterinarian, begin to “treat” their pets. The result is Cushing's syndrome. What is especially offensive, due to such “therapy”, the pituitary gland of dogs sometimes loses the ability to produce endogenous cortisol altogether.

What other reasons are there? As we have already said, they are far from being clear in all cases. For example, the mechanism of the origin of the genetically determined "Kushiga" has not been practically studied. But there are also clearer cases. They are associated with tumors, and not only malignant, but also quite benign.

Finally, do not forget about the defeat of the adrenal glands themselves. Even if the pituitary gland is absolutely healthy, it will not be able to influence the excessive release of cortisol in the event of their tumor or toxic damage.

Main features

Is it possible to somehow determine that a pet is starting to develop Cushing's syndrome or has it already occurred? During the research, several symptoms of Cushing's syndrome were identified, they can be identified by the following signs:

As mentioned earlier, the pet begins to constantly drink water, and urination is constantly working. If you notice that your pet is surprisingly very thirsty with urination, then you should pay attention to this. Keep in mind that some dog breeds are just naturally heavy drinkers. Hyperadrenocorticism in dogs is quite difficult to identify precisely by this symptom.
Hair begins to fall out and wool to degrade. With Cushing's syndrome in dogs, the skin becomes quite brittle, as a result of which they simply begin to lose them. This happens quite quickly, it takes from two weeks to a month for a dog to completely lose hair, it all depends on the breed of the dog, because some breeds are very susceptible to this disease, while others are quite resistant to it. This symptom looks very scary, and you will definitely notice if your dog begins to lose his coat.
The pet begins to lose weight very much, her physique also changes. If the dog used to have a good weight, then it can lose weight very quickly in a short amount of time. Enough strange symptom is that their body is losing weight, but the stomach becomes even fuller. After concluding this fact, the researchers noticed that in some cases, pets do not lose weight, but get fat, they could not give any explanation for this. In general, we can only say with certainty that with a very rapid change in weight, a pet may have hyperadrenocorticism.
It is also worth noting that with hyperadrenocorticism, dogs not only drink a lot, but also begin to constantly eat. They do not eat as much as they drink water, but still, their diet is almost doubled, they just start eating everything they see. The most interesting factor is precisely the fact that with a huge diet, they can even lose weight, not get fat. But often dogs still gain weight after constant feeding. large quantity food, this weight will not exceed 15% of the initial weight of the dogs.

If you have a dog that is used as a guard, then with such an illness it will be useless for its previous position, because during training they are simply depleted at a tremendous rate. As mentioned earlier, at first, pets will simply be exhausted during training, after which they may simply stop listening to your commands, because their body will not be up to training. And also they begin to simply lose potency due to this disease, in males complete atrophy of the testicles can occur.

Diagnosis and treatment

And now the most important thing, is it possible to cure this disease? The answer is yes, but first you will need to have your pet diagnosed so that doctors can be sure that your pet has hyperadrenocorticism. You will have to do a lot of research for your dog, it's not easy and it takes a lot of time.

Ketoconazole is the drug used to treat Cushing's syndrome. This drug is designed to suppress the production of hormones, it was not created for this disease, so your pet will have to increase the dose by 3 times, after which the drug will have an effect. The drug is an excellent way to fight the disease, it has practically no adverse symptoms and it is not so expensive, but the disadvantage of this drug is that it is useful only in the early stages of the disease, in the advanced stages of hyperadrenocorticism it is practically useless.

And there is also such a drug as trilostane, it is called much more effective than ketoconazole. There are two downsides to using this medicine, the first is that it has a lot of side effects, so it should only be used as directed by a doctor so as not to accidentally harm your pet. The second negative is the price, trilostane is far from the cheapest drug given that you have to buy it several times.

And also, there is an operative intervention that can help your dog in case of a tumor in the pituitary gland. There are various therapies, such as treating this disease with herbs, but this is just a waste of time and money because they have been tested and do not help pets in any way.

As you already understood, it is still possible to cure Cushing's syndrome, but for this you need to immediately contact a veterinarian who can prescribe a course of therapy. Your pet will be prescribed the medications they need to use, after which you just need to give those medications. As a rule, ketoconazole or trilostane is prescribed, it all depends on the stage of the disease, at an early stage it is possible that ketoconazole will help the dog, at a later stage, trilostane cannot be dispensed with.

And now we will consider those symptoms that more or less accurately indicate the presence of this particular disease. Here they are:

As we said, thirst and constant urination.

Wool and skin catastrophically degrade, which is especially noticeable in dogs of long-haired breeds. Hair falls out, and deep cracks and erosion appear on the skin, the occurrence of which can sometimes cause even a slight mechanical impact! This is due to the fact that the skin becomes brittle and “fragile”.

The physique of the dog changes dramatically: it loses weight, but at the same time the volume of the abdomen increases. However, in some cases, sick dogs, on the contrary, grow fat ugly (this is easily noticeable in the photo).

Almost all animals with "Cushing" begin to literally "burrow everything." A distinctive feature - fattening no more than 15-20%. All others, with a "swine" diet, only lose weight.

If a hunting or service dog falls ill, then even minimal physical exertion instantly causes severe exhaustion and fatigue. Of course, it becomes completely impossible to use such animals in the previous job. Another symptom is severe problems in the genital area. In females, even if they are in the most reproductive age, estrus completely disappears. In males, if the pathology is not treated at all, complete atrophy of the testicles can be observed.

Very often there is osteoporosis of the bones of the skeleton, which makes them noticeably thinner and more fragile. Any blow, any mechanical force, can lead to a severe fracture. Occasionally, in dogs with this pathology, involuntary, rhythmic contractions of the limbs appear. This phenomenon can be observed both on all paws, and only on the hind legs.

Symptoms and treatment

The hormone cortisol affects the functions of the entire body of the dog, therefore, with Cushing's syndrome, almost all systems are affected:

immune;
urinary;
musculoskeletal;
reproductive;
nervous;
cardiovascular.

Other glands also change the usual production of hormones, so the kidneys, liver and skin can suffer. The syndrome develops gradually, but the first symptoms you may notice are as follows:

excessive appetite;
increased thirst and, as a result, frequent urination;
alopecia (the appearance of bald patches in the kidney area).

Concomitant symptoms are manifested in urinary incontinence and rapid obesity. At the same time, excess weight is localized not in the subcutaneous tissue, but in the chest, neck and abdomen. There is a "sagging belly" effect.

After baldness in the kidney area, alopecia appears on the back, neck, chest and even the tail. If you look closely at the skin, you will notice small bumps that are hard to the touch (calcification). The skin becomes thinner, dry and cold to the touch. Bedsores and pyoderma (pustular lesions) may be observed.

Further, muscle weakness (myopathy) develops and the abdomen sags even more. The dog becomes drowsy, depressed, lethargic. You may notice a lack of coordination, as well as sudden changes in mood and behavior. Sometimes infections in the genitourinary system can occur.

The disease affects the reproductive system of the animal. In females, the sexual cycle may be disturbed and estrus may disappear. In males, atrophy of the testicles is possible. The animal may suffer from gastritis, pressure drop, osteoporosis (curvature of the limbs, fractures of tubular bones).

Given the wide impact of cortisol on the functioning of the whole organism, Cushing's syndrome affects the immune, nervous, reproductive, genitourinary, reproductive, cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems. Kidneys, skin, liver can suffer. Other glands also change the normal production of hormones.

The disease develops gradually, so you should know the main symptoms of Cushing's syndrome in dogs:

increased thirst and urination;
excessive appetite;
deterioration of the coat with the appearance of bald patches.

You can also observe other signs of a developing disease. Along with the increased urge to urinate, urinary incontinence appears. The dog is gaining excess weight, and the fat is leaving subcutaneous tissue and is localized mainly in the neck, abdomen and chest.

With the deterioration of the coat, it begins to fall out and the appearance of alopecia (symmetrical bald patches) in the region of the kidneys. Further, baldness spreads throughout the back, chest, neck and tail. Hyperpigmentation and calcification can be seen on the skin.

There is muscle weakness and a sagging belly as a result. In females, the sexual cycle is disturbed, up to the disappearance of estrus, and in males, atrophy of the testicles is possible.

The dog becomes lethargic and sleepy. Unbalanced behavior may be noticed. In the case of pituitary adenoma, coordination disorders and depression are possible.

how concomitant disease, the following symptoms of Cushing's disease in dogs are observed: pyoderma, thromboembolism, signs of secondary diabetes exposed to infections genitourinary system. The animal may experience drops in blood pressure, signs of gastritis.

Cushing's disease in dogs is accompanied by osteoporosis with possible fractures, a disorder of the cardiovascular system.

Diagnostics

Severe symptoms of the disease can be diagnosed already with a visual examination. To additional methods diagnosis in a dog includes general and biochemical blood and urine tests.

The next step will be to conduct functional tests associated with the introduction of dexamethasone and the hormone ACTH. Judging by the reactions of the body to these drugs, the work of the adrenal glands is evaluated.

To do this, an ultrasound of the abdominal cavity is performed, which will reveal the possible presence of neoplasms or an increase in the adrenal glands. Radiography will detect their mineralization, identify possible increase liver characteristic of Cushing's syndrome.

To detect tumors in the pituitary or adrenal glands, MRI and CT are used where this type of diagnosis is available. Cushing's syndrome causes irreversible consequences, tk. affects all systems and organs.

Treatment

Treatment for Cushing's syndrome in dogs can be surgical or medical. If a tumor of one of the adrenal glands is detected in the absence of metastases, it is removed.

Maybe surgical removal both affected adrenal glands, after which a further lifelong replacement therapy in the form of taking glucocorticoids and mineralcorticoids.

With a pituitary adenoma, it is possible to use drugs that suppress the production of cortisol. Unfortunately, such drugs are very expensive and inaccessible. Conservative treatment involves the use of Mitotan, Lysodren, Chloditan, L-deprenyl, Ketoconazole, Cyproheptadine.

The course of treatment is prescribed based on the clinical picture, localization of the pathological focus and constant monitoring of the dog's condition.

As an additional alternative treatment you can use the homeopathic preparation Gormel, which generally normalizes the functioning of the hormonal system and is compatible with conservative treatment.

The main indicator of correctly chosen treatment tactics is to reduce the amount of water consumed by the dog. Also, the animal will need regular monitoring of the condition with the help of a blood test and ultrasound.

The results of treatment can be different and depend on many factors, including how attentive and responsible the attitude of the owner of the dog will be.

Despite different types diseases, external Clinical signs are similar, and the main ones can be noticed by any owner of his pet. These include: increased thirst and urination (polydipsia and polyuria), increased appetite(polyphagy) - a good appetite- this is a sign of the dog's health, but its increase may indicate an emerging problem, and the owner should pay attention to this sign and once again consult with the doctor of his pet, obesity, skin changes may be characteristic (alopecia without signs of itching, thinning and inelasticity of the skin, comedones), as well as muscle weakness / malnutrition, sagging abdomen (“pot-bellied” appearance), violation of the sexual cycle in bitches and atrophy of the testes in males, noisy and rapid breathing, neurological signs.

Dachshund dog with Cushing's syndrome

Dog with Cushing's syndrome with skin calcification

Hyperadrenocorticism develops slowly, so it may not manifest itself for a long time. In this case, the disease can be detected only with a laboratory blood test for the level of cortisol in the blood.

Clinical manifestations appear on late stages illness. In this case, the following symptoms appear:

The dog develops a strong thirst.
The dog urinates frequently but little by little.
The coat becomes dry and brittle. There is an increased loss. First, the hair falls out in clumps in the abdomen, and later it can become completely bald.
The animal is depressed and tries to move less.
The abdominal muscles are weakened due to which it sags.
The fatty layer is thinned out. At the same time, muscle atrophy occurs.
Violated the cyclical sexual behavior. Males do not want to mate, and bitches lose heat.

Dogs with Cushing's disease may experience psychiatric disturbances, but this is rare. Much more often, sick pets get tired quickly and move little. They have a significant decrease in reflexes.

Sometimes animals show involuntary convulsive movements. As a rule, cramps affect the hind legs.

A blood test of sick pets gives the following picture:

The number of lymphocytes is reduced. Cells are destroyed under the influence of steroid hormones.
thrombocytosis.
An increase in the number of neutrophils.
Increased alkaline phosphatase.

Veterinarians are rarely able to make an accurate diagnosis based on symptoms alone. Therefore, sick animals are subjected to additional research methods.

The symptoms of the disease described by veterinary medicine are the same for both the syndrome and Cushing-Itsenko disease. Distinguish only the severity and intensity of manifestation of individual symptoms. With a mild form, the obvious symptoms are moderately expressed - the animal is of little concern. And in severe (advanced stage of the disease) form, in addition to pronounced clinical symptoms, complications are often observed:

pathological bone fractures;
severely progressive muscle weakness;
the appearance of hypertonic kidney syndrome;
cardiovascular disorders.

The clinical picture is as follows. Against the background of the general weakness of the animal, there is:

rapid weight gain. This is the first symptom that dog owners pay attention to. With advanced Cushing's syndrome, a specialist diagnoses obesity (fat is deposited in the abdomen, neck and chest);
the presence of excruciating pain in the joints, bones;
the formation of purple-red stripes on the skin in the area of the abdominal wall;
a sharp decline muscle mass, amyotrophy;
profuse hair loss in the chest, back and abdominal wall;
pathology of the cardiovascular system (left ventricular hypertrophy);
jumps in blood pressure;
gastritis;
subsequent development of either bulimia or polydipsia.

Also, experts distinguish two forms of the course of the disease: progressive and torpid. In the first case, both the syndrome and Cushing's disease proceed very quickly, in the second case, the disease has a protracted form (a dog can be sick for several years).

Breeds that are in the group increased risk development of Cushing's syndrome:

all poodle breeds
breeds of small terriers (Yorkshire, toy terrier, etc.)
dachshunds
german shepherds
hound breeds
Labrador Retriever
boxers
boston terriers

Diagnostics

To establish a diagnosis, the veterinarian uses several methods of examination:

inspection;
blood and urine analysis;
functional tests;
Ultrasound, MRI and radiography.

You can also visually determine the signs of osteoporosis, the presence of a bone fracture.

The second stage is a general and biochemical analysis of the blood, urine of the animal. Laboratory set the content of ACTH and cortisol, which indicate changes in the pituitary gland, hypothalamus and adrenal cortex. A complete blood count establishes hypokalemia, erythrocyte count, lymphocytopenia, hemoglobin level, neutrophilic leukocytosis, eosinopenia. A biochemical study determines the change in protein fractions, an increase in alkaline phosphatase and hepatic transaminases.

The third stage is the conduct of functional tests that allow you to evaluate the function of the adrenal cortex. Their essence is simple: first, the basic content of cortisol in the blood is determined, and then a small dose of ACTH or dexamethasone is administered. Next, doctors monitor changes in the concentration of the hormone.

After confirming Cushing's syndrome, the doctor needs to accurately establish the source of the pathology - the pituitary gland or adrenal glands. For this, an ultrasound of the abdominal cavity is performed. It will show the structure of organs, help compare the left and right adrenal glands, and see neoplasms. X-ray reveals organ mineralization, liver enlargement, bone lesions with osteoporosis, which are characteristic of the syndrome.

MRI and CT are used to detect pituitary adenomas. But this device is not always available in veterinary clinics.

Diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome in dogs is quite complicated and consists of several types of tests:

blood tests - clinical and biochemical;
special tests for the level of cortisol in the blood;
functional tests to confirm that elevated level the hormone is caused precisely by Cushing's syndrome;
Ultrasound of the adrenal glands.

As soon as the excess rate of the hormone is confirmed by blood tests and tests, you need to find out which organ provokes this pathology - the adrenal glands or the pituitary gland. For this, it is done ultrasound procedure. The owner should take into account that the preparations for tests, the ultrasound procedure are quite expensive. But this is a trifle compared to the cost of treatment in case of confirmation of the diagnosis.

After examining the dog, the doctor will prescribe general blood tests - clinical and biochemical, and a urine test to detect comorbidities, a survey ultrasound / x-ray of the abdominal cavity, as well as more specific tests - a blood test for the hormone - cortisol, but the determination of the level of cortisol in the blood is done under the influence drugs.

To clarify the preliminary diagnosis, veterinarians resort to various diagnostic methods. The most commonly used ultrasound and x-rays.

The latter is needed to identify salt deposits on the mucous membranes of the trachea and bronchi. In addition, X-ray examination reveals an enlarged liver and a distended abdominal wall. This is characteristic symptoms for Cushing's syndrome.

Ultrasounds are usually used to examine the adrenal glands. Using ultrasound, doctors can assess the condition of the glands and determine the presence or absence of tumors.

Various tomographs are used to use the pituitary and hypothalamus.

An ACT test is mandatory. First, the level of cortisol in the blood is determined in the dog, and then an injection with ACTH is given. After 60 minutes, the level of cortisol is re-determined. The disease is confirmed if the level of the hormone after injection exceeds 600 nmol / l.

As you might have guessed, the detection of this disease is possible only in a veterinary clinic. Those signs of the pathology that we have just examined may well correspond to other ailments. Moreover, they can also be of hormonal origin. Not the most fun prospect, is it?

It is not difficult to identify a disease at any of its stages and make a diagnosis for an animal, since the syndrome is an easily diagnosed ailment with a pronounced clinical picture. The diagnosis is made on the basis of a visual examination of the dog and laboratory data. At the same time, both the symptoms and laboratory data for both forms of the disease will be virtually identical.

To make a diagnosis, the following are required:

Complete blood count of a dog. When examining the material, an increased content of erythrocytes, glucose, leukocytes and hemoglobin in the plasma is revealed. Data indicating the presence of pathological processes in the body of the animal.
Biochemical analysis. In the blood serum, an increase in the level of cholesterol, cortisol and alkaline phosphatase, changes in protein fractions are found.
X-ray. Identification of osteoporosis of bones, enlargement of the liver. In some cases, in some dogs, experts diagnose the mineralization of the walls of the bronchi and adrenal glands.
Ultrasound is necessary for both mild and severe forms of the disease, since the syndrome proceeds with the formation of tumors and adenomas. The study shows an increase in the adrenal glands, the presence or absence of neoplasms.

For the correct diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome, special tests are often used - taking dexamethasone in small doses.

If your dog is showing any of these symptoms, it's best to make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible. Left untreated, Cushing's disease can cause further complications such as diabetes. If you think your dog has started to drink noticeably more, then you can measure how much water he is drinking.

This information will be of great help to the veterinarian. Use a measuring cup at the start of the day to record the exact amount of water you put into your dog's bowl. Then, at the end of the day, you will be able to determine the amount of water that is left in it, and you will only have to calculate the water that the dog drank.

If your dog is very thirsty, then you may need to refill the bowl. Water consumption should not normally exceed 100 ml per kg of body weight in a 24 hour period. Be aware that your pet may start drinking more water in case you change his diet to dry, but excessive water intake will still help confirm that the intake is still too high.

Also, a sample of your dog's urine collected on the morning of the appointment can be a useful test for the veterinarian. However, unfortunately, none diagnostic test, which would guarantee 100% diagnosis with a urine sample alone, so the veterinarian would have to run several other tests. A blood test is usually used to rule out any other diseases that may be causing the symptoms. Your dog may also need an abdominal ultrasound.

Treatment

Treatment for Cushing's disease in dogs can be medical or surgical. The choice of method depends on where the pathology is localized.

conservative

Drug therapy is aimed at reducing the production of cortisol and ACTH production, correction of metabolic processes in the kidneys, bone tissue and normalization of the cardiovascular system. To suppress the secretion of hormones, they are usually prescribed: Bromocreptine, Chloditan (mitotane), Ketoconazole, Cyproheptadine.

Chloditan is given orally to dogs for 2-3 weeks, the dosage is 25 mg/kg of body weight. The frequency of admission is 2-3 times a day. The drug is prescribed until the level of cortisol is established in the range of 50-100 nmol / l. After that, secretion is maintained by prescribing a dosage of 50 mg / kg (1 time per day).

Bromocreptine (Bromergon) is prescribed to dogs at an initial dosage of 0.1 mg/kg for 1 week. Then the concentration is halved and after 2-3 weeks a maintenance course of therapy is prescribed - 0.05 mg / kg. The total duration of treatment does not exceed 6-8 weeks.

Ketoconazole in the form of tablets is prescribed not for the regulation of hormones, but for the treatment of the animal's skin. The dosage is as follows:

the first week - 10 mg / kg (1 time per day);
the second - 20 mg / kg (1 time per day);
the third - 30 mg / kg (2 times a day).

To normalize the metabolism in the bone tissue, drugs are prescribed that enhance the absorption of calcium from the intestines. For example, Tridin or Osein.

In any case, the veterinarian sets the dosage and the drug, based on the characteristics of the course of the disease in the animal. Therefore, it is recommended not to risk the life of the pet and not to self-medicate.

Surgical

An alternative (surgical) treatment for this syndrome is to remove the adrenal, pituitary, or hypothalamic tumor if it has not metastasized. It is possible to excise the adrenal glands themselves, after which the dog will be on hormone replacement therapy for life (taking glucocorticoids and mineralcorticoids).

The difficulty is due to the fact that the syndrome, as a rule, affects elderly animals, and by that time other diseases surpass it in importance.

Treatment for Cushing's syndrome in dogs depends on whether the tumor is found in the adrenal glands or the pituitary gland. When the adrenal glands are damaged, a surgical operation is performed to remove them - provided that there are no metastases. Because these glands produce necessary for the body hormones, replacement therapy is supposed. In practice, it looks like this: the dog takes mineralcorticoids and glucocorticoids for life. It's not a big problem

The situation is more complicated when the pituitary gland is affected. With this form of hyperadrenocorticism (another name for the disease),

drugs that suppress the production of excess cortisol by the adrenal glands are recommended. This point presents the main difficulty. There are no such drugs in domestic veterinary pharmacies, they need to be purchased abroad, and they are very expensive.

Treatment

Speaking about the treatment of hypercortisolism, as in other cases, it is always immediately emphasized that the method will completely depend on the form of the disease. However, in this case, the choice of method plays a role only in the situation when it comes to surgical intervention.

With regard to drug therapy, treatment will depend on the cause of the disease, of which there are only three:

For a long time, the dog took hormones similar in composition to cortisol.
Hypersecretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) by pituitary adenoma.
Hypersecretion of cortisol by the cortex of a tumor-affected adrenal gland.

Reference. Some experts, when listing the reasons, in addition to those already mentioned, additionally name two more: absolutely any brain tumor that, with its volume, compresses the pituitary gland and blocks its signals. As well as toxic poisoning animal.

In these cases, the treatment will be etiotropic: aimed at the root cause of the development of pathology.

To treat the disease, surgery may be prescribed (with a unilateral tumor of the adrenal glands), but drug treatment in the form of tablets is more often used.

In foreign veterinary medicine, studies have been conducted proving that the treatment of hyperadrenocorticism prolongs the life of animals at times. So timely appeal and subsequent cooperation with veterinary specialists will prolong the joy of communication between owners and their pets.

If the disease was caused by a tumor of any gland, then it is completely impossible to cure the dog. However, treatment makes it possible to prolong the life of the pet and save him from some pathological symptoms.

The choice of one or another treatment strategy is determined by the results of the study and the causes that caused the pathology. So, therapeutic help is found only in animals with clearly visible symptoms.

If the dog was diagnosed on the basis of laboratory data, but there are no symptoms of pathology, then therapy is not carried out, since it can significantly accelerate the development of the disease and worsen the well-being of the animal.

As emergency measure veterinarians can go for surgery. It's about removing the tumor. Most often, it is removed along with the gland.

It should be noted that operations in our country are not performed in case of damage to the pituitary gland. Veterinarians have too little experience in this area. In addition, surgery on the pituitary gland has the following negative aspects:

She is very expensive.
There are very few qualified specialists, so the result of the intervention is unpredictable.
Lifetime hormone therapy after operation.
High risk of developing diabetes in the animal.

The veterinarians are much more willing to operate on the adrenal glands, since the operation is less complicated. Despite this, after the operation, many animals die, and the survivors have various hormonal disorders and complications.

Due to the high risks associated with surgery, drug therapy remains the best treatment.

Most often, Mitotan is used to stabilize the condition of a four-legged patient. He destroys tumor cells in the adrenal cortex.

This drug should be used according to the following scheme:

The medicine is added exclusively to the feed.
At the beginning of the course, the dosage does not exceed 12 mg of the drug per kg of body weight.
Treatment continues until the symptoms of the pathology disappear.
After the disappearance of symptoms, the drug is continued to be given to the animal along with food at a dose of 2 mg / kg once every few days.

Mitotane prolongs the life of the animal for several years. In this case, the intake of this medication should be lifelong.

Sometimes Mitotan is replaced by Trilostan. Last drug acts differently: it suppresses the production of hormones in the adrenal glands.

Trilostane is given to dogs at 6 mg per kg of body weight once a day. After two weeks of therapy, an assessment of the level of cortisol in the blood is carried out, and the dosage is adjusted upward or downward.

Other drugs can also be used for therapeutic purposes, however, their effectiveness is low, so there is simply no alternative to Trilostan and Mitotan today.

In recent years, veterinarians have begun to practice radiation therapy in the treatment of hyperadrenocorticism in dogs. This technique shows good results, but so far it is not going to the masses, since the mechanism of such therapy itself has not yet been sufficiently developed.

The described disease is amenable to effective treatment with medications. But often after the diagnosis of the disease, the life expectancy of a dog is 2-2.5 years. This is due to the fact that Cushing's syndrome causes a chain of irreversible consequences - complications affect the musculoskeletal system, cardiovascular and nervous systems, reduce the body's resistance to infections, and increase blood pressure.

The main goal of the veterinarian prescribing the treatment of the disease is to ensure the normal production of cortisol by the adrenal cortex without causing a deficiency in the body. The specialist may prescribe: Lysodren (lysodren), Mitothan (mitotane), Chloditanum (chloditan) or op'DDD. At the same time, for each individual case, treatment and the drug (dosage) are prescribed individually.

The first sign that Cushing's treatment was administered correctly is a decrease in the amount of water consumed by the dog. However, against the background of the course of drug therapy, the animal may develop complications (vomiting, increased lethargy, refusal to eat), which may indicate the development of concomitant diseases.

1. Pituitary-dependent Cushing's syndrome: for treatment, you will need to take a drug containing the active element trilostane. Treatment is aimed at suppressing the production of cortisol. Drugs usually require daily intake throughout the life of the dog. Symptoms generally decrease fairly quickly, often within the first 2 weeks of starting treatment.

The dog will need regular checkups and blood tests to make sure the medication is working and not causing any side effects or complications. A blood test is usually done after 10 days of taking the drug, after 4 weeks, and then every 3 months. The prognosis of treatment is usually good.

Therapeutic activities

Here we come to the most important. How is all this treated, and is it treated at all? It is worth immediately warning pet owners that therapy for this disease is not cheap and long, so you will have to be patient.

As for drugs, ketoconazole is often used. Oddly enough, but this is ... an antifungal agent! What do fungi have to do with Cushing's syndrome? Basically, they have absolutely nothing to do with it. Just the action of the drug is based on the suppression of the production of adrenal hormones. It's what we need!

Much more effective trilostane. What is the treatment regimen for vetoril (another name for trilostane)? It should be prescribed exclusively by a veterinarian, but in most cases a single (per day) dose of no more than 2.5 mg / kg is used. Alternatively, the daily amount is divided into two times. Attention!

In some cases, surgery may be prescribed. But this applies only to tumors of the adrenal glands themselves, since the pituitary gland in dogs in our country is practically not operated on. Are there any alternatives? After all, the treatment with Cushing's herbs in dogs is advertised! So it is, but such “therapy” does not have any effect. Generally.

Forecast and consequences

Given all of the above, we conclude that the owner of a dog affected by Cushing's syndrome has a choice between bad and very bad options. Namely:

in case of damage to the pituitary gland, provide the pet with expensive imported drugs;
in case of damage to the adrenal glands surgical operation and until the end of the dog's life, use hormone replacement drugs;
leave the dog alone and let him die a natural death;
put to sleep, if there is no strength to look at his torment.

In case of damage to the pituitary gland, if funds allow, it is possible to buy medicines abroad. Nowadays, this can be done with the help of online pharmacies. If the owner

faced with the problem of Cushing's syndrome, one can only sympathize with him and the animal. But miracles happen, and perhaps the pet will live for several more years, however, on artificial hormones. Not the worst way out of this situation.

Risk group

Cushing's disease can occur in dogs of any breed and gender. However, older animals are most often at risk. It has also been found that the breeds most prone to the disease are the Dachshund, Poodle, Beagle, Boxer, German Shepherd, Basset Hound and the entire group of terriers.

boxers,

Prevention

There is no prophylaxis for spontaneous Cushing's syndrome. Veterinarians advise regular examinations of their pets. Only in this case can one find primary signs pathology even before the disclosure of symptoms.

To prevent the development of an iatrogenic variety of the disease, do not self-medicate, especially with hormonal drugs. Carefully study the information about the composition of the medicine. Do not neglect the advice of a veterinarian, even if you want to cure the most a simple disease dogs.

In most cases, this pathology is detected in older dogs. Given the insufficient knowledge of the etiology of tumors of the pituitary and adrenal glands, the development of effective preventive methods seems impossible.

Veterinarians advise dog owners to regularly examine their pets as a preventive measure for Cushing's disease. In this case, it will be possible to identify the pathology in a timely manner and begin its treatment, which will extend the life of the pet.

Treatment of Cushing's syndrome is very expensive and does not give guaranteed results. Therefore, if the dog is in old age, then veterinarians suggest that the owners put the pet to sleep. And here each person decides the fate of his four-legged friend.

Forecast

Cushing's disease in dogs is a rather rare pathology, and no matter how strange it may sound, doctors even rejoice when they find a dog with this syndrome, because each such case brings closer to the discovery of new means to combat the disease. Although this is a unique case that advances therapeutic science, dog owners are not to be envied, because they have to contend with very serious illness. What is this disease and why is it so feared?

What is Cushing's Syndrome?

Cushing's syndrome- This is a pathology due to which the pituitary gland secretes cortilosis in large quantities. Cortilosis is the most important hormone, it is this hormone that exists in order to fight stress. The physiological mechanism of cortilosis is very difficult and lengthy to describe, since a huge number of different reactions take place there. You just need to know that thanks to cortilosis, the dog can withstand the negative effects of the external environment.

What is the problem if this hormone is one of the most important for life. For a dog, this amount of cortilosis excretion exceeds all norms. Cortilose is released so much that even an elephant would have enough of that amount of such a hormone. The pituitary gland is obliged to control this hormone, but that's just the point, for some inexplicable reason, it simply stops paying attention to the huge secretions of cortylosis in the dog's body, as a result of which the dog simply begins to languish. If your pet has Cushing's Syndrome, then the pet will have to face the following problems:

These are not even the main problems of Cushing's syndrome. The main problem is that many dogs simply die much sooner than they should. For example, many animals barely live up to three years with this syndrome, it is also worth noting that the body of a dog that is 12 years old will practically not differ in its state from the body of a dog that died from Cushing's syndrome. With Cushing's Syndrome the whole body of the dog begins to work faster and faster, thereby exhausting all its biological reserves.

It can be said that this syndrome simply slowly depletes the body of the dog, thereby killing it. And the saddest thing is that those cases are considered a miracle when pets live to the age of four. Generally, Cushing's Syndrome at high speed wears out the dog's body.

Causes

What causes hyperadrenocorticism? This is perhaps the most popular question that dog owners ask veterinarians. Even veterinarians do not know the real cause of this disease, which is why it cannot be cured, because there are a huge number of inconsistencies due to which doctors could not figure it out.

The only feature that doctors have noticed in the study of Cushing's syndrome is that cats almost never experience such a disease, for them this case is one in a million, while dogs experience Cushing's syndrome quite often. Why do cats always this disease is bypassed, while the pituitary gland in dogs cannot control the release of the hormone in huge quantities, the doctors could not understand.

Varieties

It is also worth noting that there are even predispositions for this disease, that is, those breeds of dogs in which such a disease occurs most often. This list includes 3 breeds: terriers, boxers and dachshunds.

signs

As mentioned earlier, the pet begins to constantly drink water, and urination is constantly working. If you notice that your pet is surprisingly very thirsty with urination, then you should pay attention to this. Keep in mind that some dog breeds are just naturally heavy drinkers. Hyperadrenocorticism in dogs is quite difficult to identify precisely by this symptom.
Hair begins to fall out and wool to degrade. With Cushing's syndrome in dogs, the skin becomes quite brittle, as a result of which they simply begin to lose them. This happens quite quickly, it takes from two weeks to a month for a dog to completely lose hair, it all depends on the breed of the dog, because some breeds are very susceptible to this disease, while others are quite resistant to it. This symptom looks very scary, and you will definitely notice if your dog begins to lose his coat.
The pet begins to lose weight very much, her physique also changes. If the dog used to have a good weight, then it can lose weight very quickly in a short amount of time. A rather strange symptom is that their body is losing weight, but the stomach becomes even fuller. After concluding this fact, the researchers noticed that in some cases, pets do not lose weight, but get fat, they could not give any explanation for this. In general, we can only say with certainty that with a very rapid change in weight, a pet may have hyperadrenocorticism.
It is also worth noting that with hyperadrenocorticism, dogs not only drink a lot, but also begin to constantly eat. They do not eat as much as they drink water, but still, their diet is almost doubled, they just start eating everything they see. The most interesting factor is precisely the fact that with a huge diet, they can even lose weight, not get fat. But, often dogs still gain weight after constantly eating a lot of food, this weight will not be more than 15% of the initial weight of the dogs.

If you have a dog that is used as a guard, then with such an illness it will be useless for its previous position, because during training they are simply depleted at a tremendous rate. As stated earlier, at first, pets will simply become exhausted during training, after which they may simply stop listening to your commands, because their body will not be far from training. And also they begin to simply lose potency due to this disease, in males complete atrophy of the testicles can occur.

It is also worth noting that the bones of dogs become as fragile as possible with hyperadrenocorticism, they develop a bone disease called osteoporosis of the bones of the skeleton. Dogs should not receive blows or any other stress, because because of this they can simply get seriously injured, after which they will be able to rehabilitate with great effort. The fact is that their bones are getting weaker and weaker, thereby working worse and worse, so it will take a decent amount of time for them to regenerate.

Diagnosis and treatment

And now the most important thing whether it is possible to cure this disease? The answer is yes, but first you will need to have your pet diagnosed so that doctors can be sure that your pet has hyperadrenocorticism. You will have to do a lot of research for your dog, it's not easy and it takes a lot of time.

Ketoconazole is the drug used to treat Cushing's syndrome. This drug is designed to suppress the production of hormones, it was not created for this disease, so your pet will have to increase the dose by 3 times, after which the drug will have an effect. The drug is a great way to fight the disease, it has almost no side effects and it is not so expensive, but the disadvantage of this medicine is that it is only useful in the early stages of the disease, in the advanced stages of hyperadrenocorticism, it is practically useless.

And there is also such a drug as trilostane, it is called much more effective than ketoconazole. There are two downsides to using this medicine, the first is that it has a lot of side effects, so it should only be used as directed by a doctor so as not to accidentally harm your pet. Second minus is in the price, trilostane is far from the cheapest drug given that you have to buy it several times.

As you know, after all, it is possible to cure Cushing's syndrome, but for this you need to immediately contact a veterinarian who can prescribe a course of therapy. Your pet will be prescribed the medications they need to use, after which you just need to give those medications. As a rule, ketoconazole or trilostane is prescribed, it all depends on the stage of the disease, at an early stage it is possible that ketoconazole will help the dog, at a later stage, trilostane cannot be dispensed with.

Cushing's disease is an endocrine pathology in dogs, accompanied by excessive synthesis of the steroid hormone cortisol. With the development of hyperadrenocorticism, a rapid metabolic disorder in the body occurs, leading to exhaustion and shortening of the pet's life.

Causes of Cushing's disease: hereditary predisposition, illiterate or uncontrolled use of corticosteroid hormones for the treatment of animals; neoplastic pituitary tumor; violation of the adrenal glands - intoxication, the development of a neoplasm, a serious inflammatory process. Most often, pets aged 7-10 years are susceptible to the disease., sterilized and neutered. genetic predisposition to endocrine disease seen in these breeds. like boxers, terriers, german shepherds, poodles, dachshunds.

Symptoms of the disease in dogs: in a sick pet, the genitourinary and musculoskeletal system suffers, there is a violation of the heart muscle and blood vessels, a decrease in immunity and nervous disorders. Cushing's syndrome is accompanied by lethargy of the animal, an apathetic state. Physical activity is significantly reduced.

You can suspect the following signs:

polydipsia - increased thirst, not associated with other causes, frequent urination;
appetite increases, while 80% of individuals have cachexia - the animal is rapidly losing weight, it has a sagging belly, an increase abdominal region- a consequence of the redistribution of body fat;
with the development of obesity in the neck and shoulder blades, thickening is noted; peeling and violation of pigmentation, acne;
calcification - the skin becomes thinner, and formations that are hard to the touch form on it;
the coat becomes dull, dry, baldness appears first in the area of the sides and abdomen, then the dog loses hair on the back;
bones become fragile, break easily; hypertension is found.

Diagnostic methods:

blood tests will show an increased amount of glucose and hemoglobin;
in the general analysis, erythrocytosis and an increased content of leukocytes are observed;
biochemical examination of blood in some cases shows high level not only cortisol, but also cholesterol, alkaline phosphatase, decrease in urea levels;
in the analysis of urine, a decrease in its specific gravity is noted.

Additionally, radiographic and radiographic methods of examination are prescribed. A highly effective method for diagnosing the condition of the pituitary and adrenal glands is an expensive one. In some cases, the animal is subjected to magnetic tomography, screening tests,.

Treatment of Cushing's syndrome:

if Cushing's syndrome in dogs is due to neoplastic causes, then need surgery, after removal of the adrenal glands, a life-long intake of hormonal drugs is prescribed;
a veterinary specialist acts on a tumor in the pituitary gland with the help of radiotherapy;
exist drug approach, they will prescribe Trilostan (once a day at a dose of 2.5 to 5 mcg per 1 kg of live weight), Mitotan (50 mg 2-3 times) for life.

The prognosis is very cautious. More often, Cushing's syndrome is associated with irreversible changes in the pituitary or adrenal glands. The tumor cause of endocrine pathology also does not give rise to an optimistic prognosis. The disease requires expensive drugs that are not easy to obtain. Lifelong use of hormonal drugs allows you to extend the life of your pet only for a few years.

Read more in our article on Cushing's syndrome, its detection and treatment.

Read in this article

Causes of Cushing's Syndrome

Cushing's disease is an endocrine pathology in dogs, accompanied by excessive synthesis of the steroid hormone cortisol. Glucocorticoid, according to veterinary experts, is involved in the regulation of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, and also has immunosuppressive activity. With the development of hyperadrenocorticism, a rapid metabolic disorder in the body occurs, leading to exhaustion and shortening of the pet's life.

The following factors are considered to be the causes of endocrine pathology in dogs in veterinary medicine:

According to the observation of experienced dog breeders and veterinary therapists, pets aged 7-10 years are more likely to be affected. A genetic predisposition to endocrine disease is noted in breeds such as boxers, terriers, German shepherds, poodles, dachshunds. Sexual dependence is not traced. Clinical Cases are more often observed in sterilized and castrated individuals.

Symptoms of the disease in dogs

Glucocorticoids perform many biological functions. Cortisol increases blood sugar levels, enriches the body with glucose during stress and prolonged fasting, and suppresses insulin secretion. The hormone also participates in protein metabolism, accelerating the breakdown of protein.

The role of cortisol is also great in the mechanism inflammatory response. Under its influence, there is a decrease in the release of cytokines, which accelerates proliferative processes and activates the body's immune response to inflammation.

The complex role of corticosteroid hormones determines the multiplicity of clinical signs in animals during the development of the disease. In a sick pet, the genitourinary and musculoskeletal systems suffer, there is a violation of the heart muscle and blood vessels. The disease is accompanied by a decrease in immunity and nervous disorders.

Polydipsia. A sick pet is noted that is not associated with other causes (heat, pregnancy, salty foods, etc.).
Against the background of polydipsia, frequent urination is observed. The dog often asks to go outside, the portions of urine are increased. The smell of urine may come from the animal due to frequent urination.
Appetite increases. The dog is constantly hungry.
Despite increased appetite, 80% of individuals have cachexia. The animal is rapidly losing weight, it has a sagging belly. An increase in the abdominal region is a consequence of the redistribution of body fat.
With the development of obesity in the neck and shoulder blades, thickening is noted.
Cushing's syndrome in dogs is often manifested by a symptom from skin. The owner may observe peeling and pigmentation disorders, acne. Often, an endocrine disease is accompanied by the development of calcification - the skin becomes thinner, and formations that are hard to the touch form on it.
Not in the best way with hyperadrenocorticism, the situation is also with the condition of the sick pet's coat. The coat becomes dull and dry. The owner notices baldness first in the flanks and abdomen, then the dog loses hair on the back.
A sick pet is having trouble functioning musculoskeletal system. Bones become weak and break easily. Osteoporosis, which develops under the influence of endocrine disruption, leads to severe fractures.
Many individuals suffering from increased cortisol production have hypertension.

Dog with Cushing's syndrome with skin calcification

Cushing's syndrome is accompanied by lethargy of the animal, an apathetic state. Service and hunting dogs with difficulty perform the functions assigned to them and eventually become unsuitable for service or hunting. The physical activity of four-legged friends is significantly reduced. The dog has difficulty doing the usual exercises. Long walks or bike rides with your pet are a thing of the past.

Analyzes and other diagnostic methods

Diagnose endocrine disease in four-legged patients, mainly with the help of laboratory methods. Clinical signs appear in the later stages of the pathology, when the metabolic failure has gone too far. At the slightest suspicion of Cushing's syndrome in dogs, blood tests may show an increased amount of glucose and hemoglobin. In the general analysis, erythrocytosis and an increased content of leukocytes compared with the norm are observed.

A biochemical examination of the blood of a sick pet with hyperadrenocorticism in some cases shows a high level of not only cortisol, but also cholesterol, alkaline phosphatase, and a decrease in the level of urea. In the analysis of urine, a decrease in its specific gravity is noted.

Radiographic and radiographic methods of examination will help to confirm or refute the diagnosis. With their help, a veterinarian will detect the presence of adrenal mineralization phenomena. The methods also allow to identify the neoplastic cause of hyperadrenocorticism in dogs.

A highly effective method for diagnosing the condition of the pituitary and adrenal glands is an expensive computed tomography. With its help, a specialist can visualize the tumor, determine the presence of hyperplasia in the adrenal glands. In some cases, the animal is subjected to magnetic tomography.

MRI

In the arsenal of veterinary diagnostics, there are also screening tests, a dexamethasone test, which make it possible to diagnose Cushing's syndrome in dogs. The screening test is based on the determination of the cortisol/creatinine ratio in the urine. At the same time, the analysis is taken with spontaneous urination at home (without the influence of a stress factor).

Dexamethasone test is based on the difference in the content of cortisol in the blood before and after the introduction of an artificial hormone. This method is not suitable for the detection of Cushing's syndrome due to long-term use glucocorticoids. In this case, the veterinary specialist uses a stimulating test with adrenocorticotropic hormone.

Treatment of Cushing's syndrome

The choice of treatment for an endocrine disease is largely determined by which organ failed - the pituitary gland or the adrenal glands. In the event that Cushing's syndrome in dogs is due to neoplastic causes, then the treatment is more often surgical. At the same time, after the removal of the adrenal glands, the operated animal is prescribed a life-long intake of hormonal drugs.

The owner should be aware that due to the complex anatomical access, the operation is often accompanied by complications in the form of bleeding. A tumor in the pituitary gland is treated by a veterinarian with radiation therapy.

In addition to the operational solution of the problem, there is a medical approach to the treatment of pathology. The main task in this case is to reduce the level of cortisol in the blood. For this purpose, medicines such as Trilostan, Mitotan are used in veterinary practice. Hormonal drugs change the metabolism of cortisol in the blood of sick animals, reducing the clinical signs of the disease.

Effectively reduces the level of cortisol Trilostane, being an inhibitor of steroids in the adrenal glands. The drug is prescribed once a day at a dose of 2.5 to 5 mcg per 1 kg of live weight. After a week of treatment, the veterinarian will test the dog's cortisol levels and adjust the dosage of the drug. Trilostane has proven itself in the treatment of Cushing's syndrome in animals with neoplasms in the adrenal glands.

Before and after treatment for Cushing's syndrome in a dog

Mitotan is prescribed, as a rule, at a dose of 50 mg and divided into 2-3 times. Despite the relative safety of the drug after 14 days, control test to determine the level of cortisol in the blood. Mitotan is indicated for pituitary cause diseases, and if a tumor is found in the adrenal glands therapeutic effect the drug has practically no effect. Both Trilostan and Mitotan are prescribed to a sick pet, usually for life.

Forecast for dogs

Unfortunately, veterinary therapists for Cushing's syndrome in dogs give a very cautious prognosis. This is due to the fact that, firstly, the disease is more often associated with irreversible changes in the pituitary or adrenal glands. The tumor cause of endocrine pathology also does not give rise to an optimistic prognosis. In addition, the disease requires expensive drugs that are not easy to obtain.

Lifelong use of hormonal drugs allows you to extend the life of your pet only for a few years.

Hyperadrenocorticism in dogs is a complex endocrine disruption. The cause of the disease is problems with the pituitary gland or a violation of the hormonal function of the adrenal glands. In some cases, the disease is due to tumor etiology. Diagnosis wears complex nature and is based on the determination of the level of cortisol in the blood, the detection of a tumor or hyperplasia in the pituitary and adrenal glands.

Treatment may be surgical. Best result gives lifelong use of Trilostan or Mitotan with a mandatory control test.

Useful video

Watch this video about the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of Cushing's syndrome in dogs:

Difficult diagnosis - Cushing's syndrome in dogs. What kind of diagnosis is this? How does it threaten the animal, what are the prognosis for recovery, how to treat this disease? Let's take a closer look. Cushing's syndrome is an unhealthy pathological condition of an animal during which the pituitary gland loses control over the production of adrenal glands. internal secretion special hormone - cortisol.

An excess of this hormonal substance eventually leads to the fact that the dog's metabolism is greatly activated, the body begins to function at the limit, all this can lead to its premature exhaustion and even death in the animal. However, if the disease is only in its infancy, it is often very difficult to make a correct diagnosis. Therefore, if you notice that the dog is not behaving as usual, consult your veterinarian immediately.

What is Cushing's Syndrome in Dogs

The body of a dog, like any highly organized living being, is designed in such a way that it contains a large number of interconnected endocrine glands. All of them have a great influence on various functions of life.

The adrenal glands produce a special hormone called cortisol. The level of its secretion occurs under the direct influence of the pituitary gland. Cortisol is important substance which regulates the behavior of the organism during stressful situations. When this substance is produced, the dog's blood pressure rises and glucose production increases.

During stress, the animal usually needs a lot of energy, which is used for defensive behavior or aggression. In external environment when the animal is forced to survive, this condition is quite normal. The same thing happens in humans and other mammals. The creature gets a lot of additional strength, reaction speed, endurance. However, all this is done by muting the functions of other biological systems of the body, which during this short period do not receive sufficient nutrition and blood supply. AT normal conditions stress usually does not last long and the body quickly recovers from the effects of stress.

When Cushing's syndrome occurs, the canine pituitary gland loses its ability to properly control cortisol secretion. This hormone begins to be released in significant quantities, greatly exceeding the usual rate. At the same time, the animal's body begins to be in a strong stressful state, this negatively affects all its systems. The dog literally burns before our eyes from excessive exhaustion.

Symptoms of Cushing's disease in dogs usually proceed in different ways, when the disease develops slowly, calmly, and when the dog begins to quickly burn out right in front of its owner. Most susceptible this disease middle-aged dogs that are already seven years old, but sometimes younger animals are also diagnosed. The most commonly affected breeds are Boxers, Dachshunds and Terriers.

Types of disease

Veterinary medicine has several types of Cushing's syndrome, which can occur due to various reasons. However, the symptoms of all these species are almost the same.

Cushing's syndrome in dogs of the iatrogenic type may occur due to the fact that the animal was incorrectly treated with various hormone-based drugs, and this treatment was carried out haphazardly and uncontrolled. Most likely, cortisol was present in the composition of the hormones taken. With proper treatment of this type of Cushing's syndrome, specialists will lower the level of the hormonal substance, but it is possible that the adrenal glands will stop producing it altogether. In this case, the substance will have to be administered to the animal for the rest of its life by injection.
Genetic Cushing's syndrome can be observed in young pets. The causes of its occurrence are still unknown to veterinary science.
The tumor type of Cushing's syndrome can occur due to the fact that a malignant or benign neoplasm begins to grow in the animal's brain. The tumor is usually located either near the pituitary gland or inside it. During the development of a neoplasm, the gland shrinks and ceases to perform its function. This stops the control over the secretion of cortisol by the adrenal glands. Cortisol either ceases to be produced altogether, or is produced in excess.
A disease that occurs due to malfunctions in the adrenal glands. In this case, the pituitary gland is working normally, but the adrenal glands do not receive its signals and produce cortisol at abnormal levels. The cause of this situation is usually either a tumor or some kind of poisoning with toxic substances.

Symptoms of Cushing's Syndrome

With Cushing's disease, the animal begins to show a series of certain symptoms. However, not all of them are detected in the early stages.

Intense thirst in the animal. The dog drinks liquid very often and a lot, sometimes the thirst is so pronounced that the pet tries to drink not only water, but also other liquids, sometimes even non-food ones.
Very strong urination. four-legged friend begins to ask to go to the toilet very often, the usual number of walks is not enough for the pet to fulfill all its natural needs. Sometimes the dog does not even ask to go outside and makes puddles at home or other places.
From the dog begins to emanate strong smell urine.
Increased appetite in the animal. The dog eats a lot and often, but does not gorge. Because of this, symptoms are added poor digestion and indigestion.
Indiscriminate eating. The dog eats everything, even the food that he did not like before. Sometimes the animal tries to eat even obviously inedible objects.

If you notice the above signs in your pet, then this is a clear reason to immediately contact your veterinarian. If treatment is not started in time, the disease begins to develop further and progresses. This changes the behavior and appearance of the animal:

Very sharp weight loss, while the pet eats all the food offered to him, asks for more. The ribs are starting to show through.
Significantly increases the belly of the animal.
All muscles, including the abdominal muscles, strongly atrophy, the belly begins to sag.
The dog begins to grow bald sharply and strongly, the hair falls out on the sides and stomach, the back of the animal is partially bald. There are no bald patches on other parts of the body of the four-legged friend.
Specific purple streaks appear on the skin of the abdomen. The skin becomes thin, various wounds and injuries appear, while the dog does not experience any itching and does not have any attempts to scratch.
The skeleton becomes thinner, because of this, frequent fractures occur.
In females, periods of estrus stop, and in males, the sex glands (testes) begin to atrophy.

With further progression of Cushing's disease, the dog takes the following form: it has thin legs, a sunken chest, and a disproportionately enlarged belly. The skin of the animal is bald, there are small cracks on the skin.

Diagnosis of the disease

An experienced specialist in a veterinary clinic can easily identify a diagnosis based on appearance animal, but in this case, a special laboratory examination is necessary. It is done in order to most accurately determine the type and cause of Cushing's syndrome in a dog and begin the most proper treatment. The diagnostic complex for this disease usually includes:

Holding general analysis blood, including the measurement of the number of red blood cells, platelets and white blood cells.
A biochemical blood test, including measuring the level of cortisol in it.
A urine test that measures protein content.
Ultrasound examination and fluoroscopy. These procedures allow you to find out if there are any tumors in the adrenal glands, what is the level of their mineralization, if there is increased bone porosity, if the liver is enlarged.
A study that reveals the stability of the pituitary gland.
Tests that check the proper functioning of the adrenal glands.

It is impossible to make a diagnosis based on the level of cortisol in the blood of a dog. After all, the secretion of this important biological substance can change under various external circumstances. For example, an animal may be in a state of deep stress only because it was brought into veterinary clinic for inspection. Therefore, in such cases, the level of cortisol in the blood of the animal is temporarily overestimated.

Treatment of Cushing's disease

Treatment of Cushing's syndrome in dogs is performed by two main methods, surgical and medical. The choice of one method or another depends on the type of disease.

Surgical treatment is carried out if the neoplasm was found in the adrenal gland. It is very important to pay attention to the good quality of the tumor due to the risk of metastases.

Treatment of tumors in the brain in dogs in our region is not performed. A veterinarian can only prescribe medication that inhibits the development of a tumor. At the same time, they may try to remove the adrenal glands in order to stop the production of cortisol in the blood. But further, continuous maintenance therapy in the form of injections of cortisol into the blood will be required.

The second method of treatment is the use medicines, allowing to reduce the level of cortisol in the blood of the animal. The main thing is not to underestimate its level and not stop at all.

With this disease, it is extremely important not to make any attempts at self-treatment. This can lead to a sharp deterioration in the health of the animal and even death! An important sign that the animal is beginning to recover is a decrease in appetite and normal fluid intake. Monitor the condition of your pet, and then the dog will delight you with a long and fulfilling life.