Shadow, a three-year-old male Cane Corso, presented to SPH for vomiting and diarrhea for the last 24 hours.

Shadow is up to date on vaccinations.

PHYSICAL EXAM:

Shadow's vitals were all normal. His abdomen palpated normally in all quadrants.

DIAGNOSTICS:

Parvo test- negative

Abdominal X-rays showed no obvious obstructions.

Bloodwork- Elevated kidney enzymes, low Sodium, elevated Potassium

DIAGNOSIS:

Hypoadrenocorticism (Addison's Disease)

WHAT IS HYPOADRENOCORTICISM?

This disease is characterized by reduced to absent production of critical hormones from the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are small, paired glands next to the kidneys that produce several hormones that regulate a variety of body functions necessary to sustain life. The most widely known hormone is cortisol, commonly called cortisone or steroid. Cortisol is needed by every cell in the body and is essential to protein, fat and carbohydrate metabolism as well as maintaining a healthy intestinal tract. The adrenal glands also produce another hormone called aldosterone which regulates electrolyte and water balance by keeping blood sodium and potassium concentrations within specific normal ranges. Normal blood pressure requires appropriate sodium concentrations in the blood and patients can develop low blood pressure when deficient in aldosterone. When a patient doesn't produce enough of these hormones, it will become unwell and if the levels become very low it can be life-threatening.

- Brett Wasik, DVM

TREATMENT:

Shadow was started on i.v. fluids and given an injection of a steroid. A few additional tests were performed over the next few days. After confirmation of Addison's disease, Shadow was given an injection of Percorten. Shadow will need this injection every 28-30 days for the rest of his life. He will also require prednisone tablets on days that he may be feeling stressed.

We are so happy to announce that Shadow is now back to his normal self!