Primary hypoadrenocorticism in a dog - case report

K. Gli?ska-Suchocka, K. Kubiak, M. Jankowski, J. Spu?ak, I. Maksymovych, J. Nicpon

Hypoadrenocorticism is a rare but serious disorder of the endocrine system. Because of the variety of clinical signs, hypoadrenocorticism is often difficult to diagnose. Ultimately diagnosis is made based on the combination of clinical signs, suggestive of routine blood tests, and the results of a specific test for this disorder (1). Dogs in collapse with acute adrenocortical insufficiency must be treated immediately with intravenous glucocorticoids and large volumes of intravenous fluids to correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Long-term treatment involves the administration of hormones (2, 3). Because dogs with Addison's disease cannot produce more cortisol in response to stress, stress should be minimized whenever possible. It may be necessary to increase the amount of hormones given during periods of stress (e.g. boarding, surgery, travel) (4).

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