Cushing's Syndrome -
Hyperadrenocorticism
Canine Conditions and Responses Home
Cushing's Syndrome is a disease caused by long term exposure to high
levels of glucocorticosteroids, either manufactured by the body or given
medications.
Tumours of the pituitary gland the secrete ACTH stimulate the adrenal
glands to produce large amounts of adrenal hormones. This sustained
overproduction in response to pituitary stimulation accounts for 85
percent of cases of spontaneous Cushing's syndrome.
The remaining 15 percent are caused by corticosteroid producing tumours
of the adrenal glands.
Spontaneous Cushing's syndrome occurs primarily in middle aged and older
dogs although dogs of all ages can be affected.
A number of case's of Cushing's syndrome are caused by long term therapy
with drugs containing corticosteroids. This is caused iatrogenic
Cushing's syndrome.
The signs of Cushing's syndrome include bilaterally symmetrical
hair loss, a pot bellied abdomen, lethargy with reduced activity,
infertility in females, testicular atrophy in males, loss of muscle mass
and weakness. Excessive thirst and frequent urination also occur.
Other complications include increased susceptibility to infections,
blood clots in the circulatory system (thromboembolism), high blood
pressure, congestive heart failure and central nervous system signs
including behavioural changes and seizures.
The diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome is biased on laboratory test
especially those that measure serum cortiesol concentrations before and
after the injection of ACTH and dexamethasone.
Advances in CT scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques
have made it possible to visualise small tumours of the pituitary and
adrenal glands.
Canine Bowen Technique and the treatment of
Cushing's Syndrome
Because Cushing's Syndrome is an imbalance in hormone release, there are many symptoms. The rebalancing effects
of the Canine Bowen Technique will support vetenary care for dog suffering with this syndrome.
Along with general body rebalancing
the hormone trigger system (endocrine) is encouraged to rebalance.
