Adenomas, or tumors, on the pituitary gland aren't uncommon among older dogs. They can cause Cushing's disease, where the body makes too much cortisol, leading to a weakened immune system. Radiation can shrink the tumor.
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Symptoms
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Pituitary adenomas usually don't cause neurological problems, though certain kinds can grow so much they press on the brain. Large tumors can cause vision loss, seizures and strange behavior.
Physical Side Effects
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During pituitary adenoma treatment, the doses of radiation are so small that generally side effects are minimal. The spot on the dog's fur where it was irradiated may change color, and its skin may become red. Body parts in the radiation field may become irritated--for example, if the radiation is aimed near the dog's ear, its ear canal can become irritated. This is usually a minor complication that goes away once radiation is finished.
Behavioral Side Effects
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Since some parts of the brain around the tumor can be affected, during treatment your dog might become lethargic and sleepy.
Delayed Side Effects
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Two weeks to three months after radiation, your dog may show some of the neurological symptoms that indicated the tumor in the first place. These are temporary and will go away on their own, though steroids can minimize their effects.
Late Side Effects
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If too much radiation is given, side effects can show up months or years after treatment, and can include hearing loss, death or fibrosis of brain cells.
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