In Practice 25: 18-25 (2003)
© 2003 British Veterinary Association

Diagnosis and treatment of canine hypoadrenocorticism

¹ Glasgow University.

CANINE hypoadrenocorticism should be suspected quite commonly in practice, but only occasionally diagnosed. This reflects the non-specific presenting signs, their tendency to wax and wane and the relatively low incidence of the condition. Moreover, as the clinical signs often respond to non-specific therapy, the disease has a tendency to be missed. The chances of identifying a case of hypoadrenocorticism are related to the ability to maintain a high index of suspicion for the condition. This article outlines the pathophysiology associated with hypoadrenocorticism in dogs and describes an approach to diagnosis and treatment of the disease.