Addison's Disease in a Canine

Addison's disease, also known as hypoadrenocorticism, is a disorder of the adrenal glands. These glands help your dog regulate its water, salt and sugar levels and are located by the kidneys. A dog with Addison's disease produces lower amounts of certain hormones, especially cortisol. Signs of this disease usually present themselves when a dog becomes stressed, because stress triggers the release of cortisol.

  1. Causes

    • Tumors, drugs and infections that affect the way the adrenal gland functions can cause Addison's disease. According to the Veterinary and Aquatic Services Department of the Doctors Foster and Smith website, the body can also attack its own tissues in a process called immune mediated destruction. This can cause the adrenal glands to fail. This disease is more common in young or middle-aged dogs; according to the Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine, 4 years old is the average age for this disease to occur. Females and certain breeds, such as standard poodles and Labrador retrievers, are more likely to develop this disease.

    Symptoms

    • Addison's disease causes many symptoms in dogs. Watch for signs of lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, shaking, muscle pain or weakness, and increased thirst and urination. According to The Dog Health Guide, when a dog suddenly collapses and no other reason is apparent, this disease is one of the first things to consider.

    Types

    • There are three types of Addison's disease: primary, secondary and atypical. If the adrenal glands do not produce glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids, it is primary. If the adrenal glands are affected as a result of the pituitary gland not secreting a hormone necessary to stimulate the adrenal glands, it is secondary. Finally, if the adrenal glands are damaged due to the dog's immune system, it is atypical.

    Diagnosis

    • A thorough veterinary examination will be necessary to diagnose Addison's disease. Blood tests are used to measure the dog's blood count and chemistry, and to test the hormones that should be stimulating the adrenal glands. The veterinarian may perform an electrocardiogram to check the dog's heart rhythms and rates.

    Treatment

    • Work closely with a veterinarian in order to treat Addison's disease. Treatment will depend on how sick the dog is and what is causing its disease. Some treatment options include intravenous fluids, hormone and steroid medications and stress reduction. With proper treatment, many dogs with Addison's are able to live long, comfortable lives.