| |
Registered Standard Poodles with Cushing`s Disease
mode of inheritance: unknown
Cushing`s Disease ("hyperadrenocorticism")
Cushing`s Disease, also called "hyperadrenocorticism," is a complex disease caused by an overproduction of cortisol. Whereas Addison`s disease is caused by too little cortisol, Cushing`s is the exact opposite, with too much cortisol produced by the adrenal glands.
There are only three reasons why a dog can produce too much cortisol: an adrenal gland tumor, a pituitary tumor, or overuse of hormone-type medications. Pituitary tumors make up about 85% of the cases of Cushing`s in dogs.
In dogs without Cushing`s, the pituitary gland releases ACTH, which in turn stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. When there is enough cortisol in the body, the pituitary gland slows the release of ACTH, which in turn slows the release of cortisol. Located at the base of the brain, the pituitary gland is much like a thermostat.
In dogs with Pituitary Cushing`s, ACTH is continually released, stimulating the adrenal glands to produce more cortisol. In essence, the thermostat does not shut off. Eventually, too much cortisol circulates through the dog’s body.
Some symptoms of Cushing`s are: drinking excess water, frequent urination/incontinence, panting, weakness, pendulous belly, thinning fur, and a ravenous appetite.
Registered Standard Poodles:
 Kasalland's Barefoot Contessa (Can Ch. Mage's Master Magician x Can Ch. Kasalland For Your Eyes Only)
Links for Additional Information on Cushing`s Disease;
|
|
