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Hyperadrenocorticism in cat - Coggle Diagram
Hyperadrenocorticism in cat
Types
iatrogenic hyperadrenocorticism - exogenous administration of glucocorticoids
Cushing;s disease / pituitary-dependant hyperadrenocorticism (PDH) -excess cortisol production due to a pituitary tumor
adrenal-dependant disease - adrenal gland tumor
Clincal signs
polydipsia & polyuria
increased appetite
lethargy
poor coat and hair loss
muscle wasting and weakness
thin and fragile skin
Diagnosis
urine cortisol level - high levels
ACTH-stimulation test – with this test, blood samples are taken to measure cortisol levels before and after an injection of synthetic ACTH. If very excessive concentrations of cortisol are found then this usually confirms a diagnosis
Dexamethasone screening test – with this test, blood cortisol levels are measured before and after an injection of dexamethasone (a potent corticosteroid that would normally suppress cortisol production). If cortisol production is not suppressed this may indicate hyperadrenocorticism is present.
Measuring blood concentrations of ACTH – it may be possible to have blood concentrations ACTH measured which may also help to differentiate between adrenal- and pituitary-dependent disease
X-rays and ultrasound – ultrasound especially can be useful as it is able to determine the size of the adrenal glands and evaluate whether one or both are enlarged. This can also help distinguish between adrenal- and pituitary-dependent disease
Treatment
Drug therapy with trilostane - inhibit cortisol production
surgical adrenalectomy - surgical removal of adrenal gland due to tumor
hyphophysectomy - surgical removal of pituitary gland
radiotherapy for pituitary tumor - controls hyperadrenocorticism