CNJ+ May 2025

CUSHING’S DISEASE IN DOGS By Valeria Mancuso

CHILD, ADOLESCENT & ADULT PSYCHIATRIST

What is Cushing’s Disease? Cushing’s Disease is a condition usually caused by a tumor in the pituitary gland of the dog, which is also known as hyperadrenocorticism. The pituitary gland is a tiny gland found at the base of the brain that releases adrenocorticotrophic hormone, which in turn tells the adrenal glands to release cortisol. In a pet with Cushing’s Disease, a tumor in the pituitary gland causes the cortex to release excess amount of cortisol. Symptoms

are at higher risks of developing Crushing’s Disease. Almost all pets are older than eight years when CD de velops. Diagnosis Diagnosis of Cushing’s Disease can be very expen sive and not easy. Blood and urine tests are needed to make the diagnosis. Dilute urine and an elevation of the liver enzyme alkaline phosphatase in the blood indicate that testing for CD may be necessary. Cush ing’s Disease can be verified with an adrenocortico tropic hormone stimulation test. If the dog’s cortisol level starts high and climbs even higher a diagnosis

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This disease causes extreme thirsts, so a dog with CD tend to drink tremen dous amounts of water and then urinate very frequently, especially at night. Dogs also lose muscle and become very weak. You may notice thinning of skin, lesions on the skin, and hair loss on the flanks, neck and perineum. Obesity and lack of energy are also common symptoms. Causes Cushing’s Disease is a naturally occurring syndrome, however it can be caused by administering excessive amounts of prednisone or dexametha sone for prolonged periods. Affected dogs develop symptoms that are iden tical to the tumor-based disease and resolve once the steroids are stopped. Certain breeds including Poodles, Dachshund, Boston Terrier, and Beagles

609.245.8550 WWW.GSINGHMD.COM Most dogs with pituitary-based CD are treated with medication. Mitotane and Trilostane are oral medications that selectively destroy part of the ad renal cortex so that although the pituitary gland tumor continues to release ACTH and cortisol levels remain normal. Monitoring is done to ensure that the drugs don’t destroy all of the cortex and that the cortisol stays normal. Resources: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/cushings-disease-in-dogs/ Appointments in Freehold & Monroe Twp. of CD is confirmed. It can also be verified with the dexamethasone sup pression test. If the cortisol level fails to drop, it suggests there is a tumor not responding to the medication. Ultrasound examinations also allow the veterinarian to determine whether or not a tumor is present. Treatment

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