Hypoadrenocorticism (Addison’s Disease)
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Hypoadrenocorticism (Addison’s Disease)

by Claire M. Weigand, DVM, DACVIM (SAIM)
Jul 10, 2020

What is Addison’s disease?

Addison’s disease is a disorder caused by a deficiency of two hormones called cortisol (a stress hormone) and aldosterone (a hormone which regulates electrolyte and water balance in the body). Both cortisol and aldosterone are produced by the adrenal glands, which are located inside the abdomen, near the kidneys.  This disease is most often caused by immune-mediated destruction of the adrenal glands. Dogs are most commonly affected. 

What are signs that your pet has Addison’s disease? 

When Addison’s disease occurs, it usually affects young to middle aged female dogs, although any dog at any age can be affected. Certain breeds, such as the Standard Poodle, Portuguese Water Dog, and West Highland white terrier, are at an increased risk of developing this disease.  Symptoms vary and can involve several body systems.

  • Lethargy, weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, and/or poor appetite are common signs.
  • A marked increase in thirst and urination is often noted in the days to weeks before diagnosis, and dogs can become dehydrated.
  • Some dogs present in shock or for collapse; this is called an Addisonian crisis.

The signs of the disease can be intermittent or occur suddenly. Because the symptoms of Addison’s disease mimic other problems and often respond temporarily to supportive treatment, it may be difficult to recognize the diagnosis.

How are dogs diagnosed with the disease?

A marked increase in potassium and a decrease in sodium are seen in patients with aldosterone deficiency, while other, less specific, findings on routine blood work may include changes in the white blood cell count, decreases in blood proteins, blood sugar, and cholesterol or increases in kidney values. Definitive diagnosis is made using an ACTH stimulation test.  This blood test uses a hormone (i.e. ACTH) to stimulate the adrenal glands to produce cortisol.  In a patient with Addison’s disease, the adrenal glands can’t respond, and the cortisol levels are very low or absent.

What are the treatment options?

  • Initial treatment may include fluid therapy and other emergent interventions to correct dehydration and electrolyte abnormalities.
  • Long-term treatment is aimed at the restoration of the hormonal deficiencies (both cortisol and aldosterone).
  • Prednisone is an oral tablet that is typically used to replace cortisol.
  • Either DOCP (injection given under the skin) or fludrocortisone (oral tablet) is administered to replace aldosterone.

The prednisone dose may need to be increased during times of stress, such as veterinary or grooming appointments, travel, or moving.  Prednisone should be given every day to control the disease.  

The prednisone dose is generally adjusted based on clinical signs. 

Signs of prednisone deficiency include:

  • Decreased appetite
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Decreased energy level
  • Weakness

Signs of prednisone excess include:

  • Marked increase in appetite
  • Increase in thirst and urination
  • Muscle wasting or weight loss
  • Pot-bellied appearance
  • Thinning hair coat

Fludrocortisone must also be given daily, while DOCP is usually administered every 3-4 weeks. Dogs receiving either fludrocortisone or DOCP should have electrolyte (sodium, potassium and chloride) values checked frequently by their veterinarian until a stable maintenance dose has been determined for the dog. The dose and/or frequency of both these drugs may need to be adjusted based on electrolyte monitoring under veterinary supervision. 

There is also an atypical form of Addison’s disease in which the body is only deficient in cortisol. These patients are often lethargic, have poor appetites along with weight loss, vomiting, and diarrhea. Signs of atypical Addison’s disease can occur intermittently. This form of Addison’s disease is also diagnosed by an ACTH stimulation test.  Prednisone therapy is started right away, and the electrolytes are carefully monitored over time to evaluate the dog for aldosterone deficiency.

What is the outcome after treatment?

Hormone replacement therapy is a life-long requirement for dogs with Addison’s disease. As long as the dog is receiving hormone replacement therapy, their quality of life is excellent.  Anything that prevents the medications being given, such as misplacement of the medications or illness, must be considered an emergency. In times of illness, the patient may not be able to take pills and cannot compensate for the stress of the illness, which can lead rapidly to an Addisonian crisis. 
Fortunately, the prognosis for Addison’s disease is generally excellent.  Most patients with Addison’s disease lead full and long lives.


Edited by:
Stacie Summers, DVM, DACVIM (SAIM)

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