Addison's Disease (Hypoadrenocorticism) Case 1

"Kona" a 2 1/2 year old female Labrador Retriever, was brought in for lethargy of one week duration. Kona had vomited several times and now was eating very little. Physical examination revealed no obvious abnormalities, so blood samples were drawn for routine analysis. Radiographs were taken of thorax and abdomen and were normal.

Blood results:
BUN (Blood urea nitrogen) 47 mg/dl (normal = 7-27 mg/dl)
Creatinine 2.1 mg/dl (normal = 0.4-1.8 mg/dl)
Sodium 113 meq/L (normal = 141-156 meq/L)
Potassium 5.9 meq/L (normal = 4.0-5.6 meq/L)
Sodium/Potassium ratio 19 (normal = 27-40)

These blood results are highly suggestive of a condition known as hypoadrenocorticism or Addison's Disease. 

Addison's disease is a condition of the adrenal glands that results in deficiencies of glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid hormones normally produced by these glands. It is a relatively rare disease that occurs primarily in middle-aged female dogs.

Symptoms may be vague, but include depression, lethargy, weakness, loss of appetite, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea and increased water intake and urination.

The diagnosis was confirmed with an additional test known as an ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) test. This test measures the response of the adrenal glands to stimulation with ACTH. A failure of the adrenal glands to respond to ACTH usually indicates Addison's Disease. "Kona" was initially treated in the hospital with intravenous fluids (0.9% NaCl), dexamethasone sodium phosphate and fludrocortisone acetate (Florinef).

She was released from the hospital and placed on oral Florinef and prednisone. Her response to treatment was dramatic with reversal of all symptoms and return of her blood values to normal.

"Kona" has since been converted to once-a-month injections of desoxycorticosterone pivalate (Percorten-V, DOCP) which is manufactured by Novartis Animal Health. She also is given 2.5mg of prednisone daily. Her adrenal function has remained absolutely stable.