## Introduction
Welcome, fellow pet enthusiasts and concerned pet parents! Today, we’re diving into a topic that hits close to home for many of us – Cushing’s disease in our beloved canine companions. This condition, also known as hyperadrenocorticism, is a complex and multifaceted issue that can significantly impact a dog’s quality of life. As a pet science blog author with a passion for blending personal experiences with scientific facts, I aim to shed light on this subject and provide you with a comprehensive understanding of Cushing’s disease, its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
## Who Gets Cushing’s Disease?
Cushing’s disease is predominantly a condition that affects middle-aged and older dogs, with cats also being susceptible, albeit with a higher likelihood of concurrent diabetes mellitus. Interestingly, the disease seems to affect both genders equally and does not show a predisposition for any specific breed. The typical age range for contracting Cushing’s disease is between two to sixteen years, with the average age being around six or seven years.
## Symptoms of Cushing’s Disease in Dogs
The symptoms of Cushing’s disease can be quite varied and often progress gradually, making it easy for pet parents to attribute these changes to the natural aging process. Here are some of the most common symptoms to watch out for:
### Increased Water Consumption and Urination
Affected dogs may drink between two to ten times the normal amount of water, leading to a corresponding increase in urination. This symptom is present in over 85% of dogs with Cushing’s disease and can result in housebroken dogs having accidents due to their bladders filling up quickly.
### Increase in Appetite
An increase in appetite, or polyphagia, is another common symptom, affecting around 80% of dogs with the disease. Affected dogs may exhibit behaviors such as stealing food, getting into the garbage, and becoming very protective of their meals.
### Abdominal Enlargement
A potbellied appearance is common in up to 80% of dogs with Cushing’s disease. This is due to the shifting of fat to the abdominal area and a weakening of muscle mass in the abdomen.
### Hair Loss and Thin Skin
Hair loss and thinning of the skin are also prevalent symptoms, affecting between 50% and 90% of dogs with the disease. The hair loss usually starts over areas of wear, such as the elbows, and progresses to the flanks and abdomen.
## Cushing’s Disease: Two Distinct Forms
Cushing’s disease can be categorized into two distinct forms: pituitary dependent hyperadrenocorticism (PDH) and adrenal-based hyperadrenocorticism. PDH, which accounts for around 80% of canine Cushing’s disease cases, involves the oversecretion of ACTH by the pituitary gland due to a tumor. On the other hand, the adrenal-based form of the disease, responsible for about 20% of cases, is usually a result of an adrenal tumor causing an oversecretion of glucocorticoids.
## Diagnosis
Diagnosing Cushing’s disease involves a combination of routine tests and specialized screening tests. A complete blood count (CBC), blood chemistry panel, and urinalysis are recommended as part of the evaluation process. These tests can reveal abnormalities such as increased liver enzymes, cholesterol, and decreased kidney function.
Three common screening tests include:
### Urine Cortisol:Creatinine Ratio
This test involves collecting a urine sample at home and sending it to a specialized laboratory for testing. Most dogs with Cushing’s disease will have an abnormal result, but further diagnostic testing is necessary if the test is abnormal.
### Low Dose Dexamethasone Suppression Test
This test is useful in diagnosing Cushing’s disease in dogs. Normal dogs show a marked decrease in blood cortisol levels after being given low doses of dexamethasone, while most dogs with Cushing’s disease do not.
### Abdominal Ultrasound
Abdominal ultrasound is helpful in evaluating abdominal organs, studying the size and shape of the adrenal glands, and identifying any metastasis to other organs if a tumor is suspected.
## Treatment
Treatment options for Cushing’s disease vary depending on the type of disease and may include surgery for adrenal tumors or nonsurgical treatments. Nonsurgical treatments are the most common and include oral medications such as Lysodren, Trilostane, and Ketoconazole. Lysodren, for instance, works by destroying cells of the adrenal gland that produce corticosteroid hormones, while Trilostane is a newer treatment that may be an alternative for dogs with adrenal tumors.
## Conclusion
Cushing’s disease is a complex condition that affects middle-aged to older dogs, presenting with symptoms such as increased water consumption, increased appetite, hair loss, and a potbellied appearance. With several diagnostic tests and treatment options available, it’s crucial