Addison’s disease, which is technically called hypoadrenocorticism, is defined as diminished hormone production from the cortex of the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are paired endocrine organs located next to the kidneys that produce and regulate a number of steroid hormones. The adrenal cortex can be damaged by trauma, hemorrhage, mineralization, cancer, immune-mediated destruction, infection and a number of other things. It is generally thought that approximately 90% of the adrenal cortices must be destroyed
Addison’s disease is an endocrine disorder caused by inadequate production of mineralocorticoid and/or glucocorticoid hormones by one or both of the adrenal glands. While the signs of this disease are nonspecific and can be caused by a number of other disorders, watchful owners normally are able to spot the symptoms of Addison’s in their pets, even though they may not know what is causing those symptoms to occur. If left untreated, or if diagnosis
Addison’s disease in dogs can be difficult to diagnose, because the symptoms of this disease are nonspecific and mimic those of many other, more common medical conditions, such as renal failure, liver disease and assorted gastrointestinal disorders. Veterinarians may only focus on Addison’s after eliminating other possible causes of a dog’s observable symptoms. If left untreated, this disease can progress to what is called an acute Addisonian crisis, which can rapidly become life-threatening. However, once
Addison’s disease, technically called hypoadrenocorticism, is a potentially fatal condition in dogs that cannot be cured but typically can be well managed medically. The signs of Addison’s are nonspecific and include intermittent vomiting, diarrhea, weakness and abdominal pain. When an owner notices these symptoms, she should take her dog to the veterinarian as soon as possible. If left untreated, Addison’s disease will progressively worsen and can be fatal. Normally, by the time a dog