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Addison’s Disease (Hypoadrenocorticism)
Endocrine and MetabolicCanineNew
Key Points
  • Addison’s disease (hypoadrenocorticism) is caused by inadequate adrenal production of glucocorticoids ± mineralocorticoids
  • Most commonly seen in dogs
  • It has a vague and non-specific presentation, including vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, weight loss, dehydration, weakness and bradycardia
  • The ACTH stimulation test is the gold standard for diagnosis
    • Other findings include hyperkalaemia, hyponatraemia, azotaemia and an absent stress response
  • Management focuses on lifelong supplementation of glucocorticoids (prednisone) and mineralocorticoids (DOCP)
  • If the condition is not addressed, Addisonian crisis can develop which is a life-threatening emergency
Differential Diagnoses
  1. Acute kidney injury
  2. Urinary obstruction
  3. Gastroenteritis
  4. Pancreatitis
  5. Chronic inflammatory enteropathies (CIE)
Overview
Aetiology
Clinical Signs
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prevention
Resources
Overview

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Aetiology

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Clinical Signs

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Diagnosis

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Treatment

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Prevention

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Resources

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Educational content only. This factsheet is for general veterinary education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Not for use in an emergency — contact a veterinarian or emergency service. Full disclaimer →