Cushings SA

What is a common clinical sign of Cushing's disease characterized by increased thirst and urination?

PUPD (Polydipsia and Polyuria)

Which physical appearance change is commonly observed in dogs with Cushing's disease?

Abdominal enlargement, often described as a pot belly.

What is the term for increased hunger that may be seen in Cushing's disease?

Polphagia.

What type of skin changes are associated with Cushing's disease?

Bilateral, symmetrical alopecia; thin skin; reduced elasticity; scale/comedones; slow healing; calcinosis cutis; non-pruritic.

Which organ's enlargement is commonly seen in dogs with Cushing's disease?

Hepatomegaly.

What are two common clinical signs related to muscle in dogs with Cushing's disease?

Muscle wasting and weakness, leading to lethargy and exercise intolerance.

What reproductive changes might occur in dogs with Cushing's disease?

Changes in reproductive health and cycle.

What breed and age group is commonly affected by PDH (Pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism)?

Middle-aged small dog breeds.

What breed and age group is commonly affected by ADH (Adrenal-dependent hyperadrenocorticism)?

Older large dog breeds.

What do abnormal blood chemistries indicate in the diagnosis of Cushing's disease?

Increased ALKP, ALT, hyperglycemia, hyperphosphatemia, increased cholesterol and triglycerides.

What imaging studies are utilized in diagnosing Cushing's disease?

Abdominal and thoracic radiographs.

What does the low dose dexamethasone suppression test measure?

Cortisol levels in response to administration of dexamethasone.

What result indicates a positive low dose dexamethasone suppression test for Cushing's disease?

Reduced/absent cortisol response.

What does a positive ACTH stimulation test indicate?

Post-stimulation cortisol levels greater than 600 nmol/l.

What does a low urinary cortisol:creatinine ratio indicate?

It helps rule out hyperadrenocorticism (HAC).

What effect does exogenous ACTH have in differentiating between PDH and ADH?

In PDH, ACTH levels increase; in ADH, ACTH levels decrease.

What is a key surgical treatment option for adrenal-dependent Cushing's disease?

Adrenalectomy.

What medical management is used to treat Cushing's disease?

Trilosate, which prevents the conversion of pregnenolone to progesterone.

What is the long-term requirement after surgical treatment of Cushing's disease?

Life-long hormone replacement therapy.

Which type of Cushing's disease typically has a better prognosis?

Pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism (PDH).