How is hyperadrenocorticism treated?
Hyperadrenocorticism can be treated medically or surgically. If an adrenal tumour is found the treatment of choice is surgical removal, usually by a specialist surgeon. However, medical treatment can also be effective. Dogs with pituitary-dependant hyperadrenocorticism can be managed medically by oral administration of certain drugs e.g mitotane. The animal may need hospitalisation during initial treatment if the clinical signs are severe. Follow-up examinations and blood tests will be necessary to monitor the pet and to evaluate response to treatment. Medication is required lifelong. Once treatment has commenced the clinical signs of hyperadrenocorticism generally resolve quite rapidly. Initially, water consumption, frequency of urination, and appetite are reduced. Muscle strength and physical activity increase within a few weeks, and substantial hair regrowth usually occurs in 2-5 months.
