Addison’s Disease or Hypoadrenocorticism
Overview:
This is an endocrine disorder where the adrenal glands are deficient in producing steroids for the body. Steroids are responsible for electrolyte balance and other imperative functions. This disease is uncommon in dogs, and very rare in cats.
Causes:
The absolute cause is unclear, but appears to be an autoimmune process. This syndrome can also occur when treating Cushing’s Disease or when weaning off of chronic steroid administration.
Symptoms:
Symptoms are very vague and include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, weight loss, increased drinking/urinating. In animals with an acute and severe crisis, collapse and slow heart rate is common.
Treatment:
In an acute crisis, hospitalization with intravenous fluids and steroids are necessary. For maintenance after hospitalization, an injection of replacement steroids (Percorten) every 3-4 weeks is needed. Some animals also require oral prednisone daily. There is also a medication called fludrocortisone acetate given orally daily that can be given in lieu of the injection. Animals should also receive extra prednisone during periods of stress (boarding, surgery, travel). This is a chronic disease and will require life-long medication, but the prognosis is excellent.
