Atypical Cushing's Disease in a Canine
Dogs suffer from the same diseases that afflict humans. Cushing's disease is one ailment that can affect any living creature with an endocrine system. Atypical Cushing's disease is one variant of the disease, along with typical and pseudo-Cushing's disease.
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Symptoms
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Atypical Cushing's disease is a form of Hyperadrenocorticism (HAC). This endocrine disorder causes a dog to drink excessively, urinate often, lose hair and become weak and tired.
Identification
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Cushing's disease occurs when the adrenal gland secretes an excess of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). Veterinarians use the word atypical when tests for Cushing's disease, such as ACTH tests and low dose dexamethasone suppression (LDDS) tests, come out normal.
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Cause
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According to Rhett Nichols, DVM, ACVIM, there is speculation that atypical Cushing's disease occurs because of an abnormality in the production of steroids that are needed to make cortisol, the hormone released by the adrenal gland.
Dogs at Risk
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Cushing's disease normally affects dogs older than 8 years old. Many die within two years of diagnosis either from old age or other infections caused by the disease.
Treatment
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There is limited treatment for atypical Cushing's disease. Mitotane or trilostane may be administered.
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