Hypoadrenocorticism Associated with Sepsis in Dogs – Case Report

Abstract

Hypoadrenocorticism is an uncommon condition in dogs and is most often caused by immune-mediated destruction of the adrenal glands resulting in decreased mineralocorticoid and glucocorticoid production. Definitive diagnosis requires adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation testing to demonstrate low basal and post-ACTH cortisol levels. The symptoms are varying and usually not specific. An acute hypoadrenocortical crisis in a dog represents a true medical emergency due to the resulting severe hypovolemia, dehydration, hypotension, electrolyte derangements, and acid-base abnormalities. The prognosis for hypoadrenocorticism is excellent with appropriate mineralocorticoid and glucocorticoid supplementation. This report describes the case of a non-defined breed female dog, 8 years old, 8.9 kg diagnosed with primary hypoadrenocorticism. Treatment was based on replacement of hydroelectrolyte, glucose and corticosteroid deficits, promoting rapid evolution in the patient's clinical condition, with disappearance of symptoms and normalization of laboratory parameters by the end of the treatment.

DOI:https://doi.org/10.56238/uniknowindevolp-104