Canine hypoadrenocorticism

Abstract

Hypoadrenocorticism is an important endocrinopathy, although it is considered rare in dogs. This paper reports the case of a young female dog with signs of vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration and anorexia at the Luciana Guidolin veterinary clinic in Caxias do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul. The complementary exams showed polycythemia, reticulocytosis, leukocytosis, neutrophilia, monocytosis, eosinophilia, azotemia, hyperkalemia and hyponatremia. Ultrasound showed a decreased size of the adrenal glands. The diagnosis of hypoadrenocorticism was confirmed by the ACTH stimulation test. Acute treatment was performed with 0.9% saline fluid therapy, glucocorticoid replacement, management of hyperkalemia, hypoglycemia, and supportive care. For maintenance treatment, fludrocortisone acetate and prednisolone were prescribed. After control, the patient was discharged and remained stable.