What is Addison’s disease?
Addison’s disease (hypoadrenocorticism) occurs when the adrenal glands stop producing cortisol and aldosterone, two steroid hormones. Cortisol helps your dog deal with stress whilst aldosterone aids the regulation of water and electrolytes in the body.
What causes Addison’s disease?
Primary Addison’s disease, which is the most prevalent form, is most commonly caused by the body’s immune system attacking and destroying the adrenal gland. The reason for this is currently unknown despite extensive studies. In a smaller number of cases the adrenal gland can be destroyed by trauma, infection or cancer.
Secondary Addison’s disease is caused by a problem in the pituitary gland in the brain which regulates hormones, this could be due to a tumour. Abrupt cessation of long term steroids can also lead to the development of secondary Addison’s disease.
What are the signs of Addison’s disease?
Signs are often vague but can include:
- Lethargy
- Weight loss
- Reduced appetite
- Increased drinking and urination
- Intermittent vomiting and diarrhoea
If the condition rapidly develops this can cause an ‘Addisonian crisis’. The signs of which are severe vomiting and diarrhoea, decreased heart rate and collapse. This is a life-threatening emergency and you should call a vet immediately.
Who is at risk of Addison’s disease?
All dogs can be susceptible but certain breeds show a higher pre-disposition to developing the disease, including:
- Standard poodles
- West Highland white terriers
- Great Danes
- Bearded collies
- Portuguese water dogs
- Nova Scotia duck tolling retrievers
- Soft-coated wheaten terriers
- Leonbergers
- Labrador retrievers
- St Bernards
How is Addison’s diagnosed?
Your vet will perform a complete physical exam as well as blood screening and urine analysis. If Addison’s disease is suspected your vet may request a test to measure the cortisol levels followed by an ACTH stimulation test. In this test the cortisol level are measured before and after administering a synthetic hormone (ACTH) which stimulates the production of cortisol. This can give your vet a definitive diagnosis of Addison’s.
How is Addison’s treated?
Whilst the disease cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed, with patients leading normal, long lives. Affected dogs will need life-long medication to replace the depleted hormones. Regular vet check-ups and diagnostic testing is necessary to monitor your pet’s stability on their medication.
Call us on 01435 864422 if you think your pet may be showing signs of Addison’s disease or book a health check via our online booking system.
