Cushing's disease, or hyperadrenocorticism, happens most often in people, dogs and horses. Although it can happen because of outside factors, Cushing's is generally carried in a dog's genes and occurs most frequently in older dogs of specific breeds.
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Cushing's Disease Facts
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Cushing's disease describes an adrenal disorder in which a dog's adrenal glands malfunction. The adrenal glands receive incorrect signals and release too much cortisol into the blood. This overabundance of cortisol leads to symptoms like thin skin, hair loss, fatigue, swollen abdomen and immunosuppression.
Causes--Pituitary Gland
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A dog's adrenal system incorporates a complex process of trigger and reaction. Generally, the pituitary gland releases ACTH in response to a stressful situation. ACTH then triggers the adrenal glad to release cortisol, or adrenaline, which spurs the dog's body to action. Pituitary tumors and genetics can disrupt this process and lead to Cushing's. Pituitary tumors are one of the most common causes of Cushing's.
Causes--Adrenal Gland
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Disruption of the adrenal gland also causes Cushing's disease. Dogs who have taken damage to the adrenal gland produce too much cortisol without any help from the pituitary gland. Overuse of corticosteroids and steroids damages adrenal glands and leaves them incapable of controlling the production and release of cortisol.
Treatment
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Although Cushing's is a serious chemical disorder, it is not fatal on its own. Once a vet has positively diagnosed Cushing's, he or she prescribes a lifetime management program. Cushing's medication controls the function of both adrenal and pituitary glands, while lifestyle changes support the dog's changing body.
Lipase
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Lipase is a digestive enzyme, normally released by pancreas to break down starches in the digestive tract. When a dog has pancreatitis, or inflamed pancreas, the organ releases more lipase than usual. According to VetInfo, elevated lipase levels are also associated with kidney disease, intestinal problems and dehydration. A vet measures a dog's lipase level in a standard blood test for health, and informs owners if their dog has elevated lipase.
Causes and Connections
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Although lipase levels have no direct correlation with Cushing's disease, they may have an indirect connection. According to Cornell University, use of steroids sometimes increases lipase levels. Since steroid use can damage adrenal glands, and bring on Cushing's, increased lipase levels sometimes indicates a precursor of Cushing's disease. High lipase levels tell a vet that adrenal damage is possible and that a dog should be tested and watched for Cushing's.
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