In dogs and cats, hyperadrenocorticism is confirmed with screening tests such as the low-dose dexamethasone suppression test, the ACTH stimulation test, or the urine cortisol:creatinine ratio. Pituitary tumors causing hyperadrenocorticisms may be present without causing neurologic signs. 57 Macroadenomas are more common in older, large-breed dogs. 56 Signs of pituitary macroadenomas are usually vague and include depression, confusion, circling, ataxia, and seizures. Pituitary adenomas (macroadenomas) may create neurologic signs by growth and expansion into the hypothalamus (see Figure 15-5, A through C). This condition produces spontaneous muscle contractions (pseudomyotonia) and a stiff gait. Some dogs develop muscle degeneration, known as steroid-induced myopathy (see Chapters 7 and 10 Chapter 7 Chapter 10). Generalized muscle weakness resulting from the catabolic effects of glucocorticoids is a common finding. The clinical signs are caused by the metabolic effects of hypercortisolemia. In dogs and horses, pituitary adenomas that hypersecrete adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) are the most common cause, but functional cortisol-secreting adrenal tumors also produce this syndrome in dogs and cats. Hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing disease/syndrome) occurs in dogs, horses, and cats. Marc Kent DVM, BA, DACVIM, in Handbook of Veterinary Neurology (Fifth Edition), 2011 Hyperadrenocorticism
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |