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Cushing’s syndrome

Cushing’s syndrome, also called hyperadrenocorticism, is a hormonal disorder in which the body produces too much cortisone or cortisone-like substances. It is more common in dogs than cats and generally more common in females than males.

A distinction is made between two forms of the disease:

  1. Pituitary hyperadrenocorticism: Here, the pituitary gland in the brain produces an excessive amount of cortisone-forming messenger substances.
  2. Adrenal hyperadrenocorticism, which occurs less frequently, is based on increased cortisone production due to enlargement of the adrenal gland, usually caused by a tumour.

The first symptoms in dogs and cats are increased drinking and urination and a more pronounced feeling of hunger. Externally, a pot belly and thinner legs are also noticeable, as the increased blood cortisone level leads to muscle breakdown and the storage of fats in the liver. Changes can also occur in the coat, such as hair loss, pigmentation of the skin and itchy areas of inflammation.

Depending on the cause, Cushing’s syndrome can be treated and cured with medication and surgery.