Addison's Disease
(primary adrenal insufficiency or hypoadrenocorticism)
(This inormation is not meant to be a substitute for veterinary care, treatment, and advice. Always seek treatment and follow the instructions provided by your primary veterinarian and veterinary endocrinologist).
Addison's Disease, also called primary adrenal insufficiency, is a long-term endocrine disorder that occurs when the body doesn't produce enough of certain hormones. With Addison's disease, the adrenal glands, located near the kidneys, produce too little cortisol and, often, too little aldosterone. When proper amounts of these hormones are not produced, the metabolic and electrolyte balance is upset. Mineralocorticoids control the amount of potassium, salt and water in the body.
Addison's disease in dogs can occur in all breeds, age groups, both sexes, and can be life-threatening. Treatment involves taking hormones to replace those that are missing. This condition is fatal if left untreated.
Addison's Disease, also called primary adrenal insufficiency, is a long-term endocrine disorder that occurs when the body doesn't produce enough of certain hormones. With Addison's disease, the adrenal glands, located near the kidneys, produce too little cortisol and, often, too little aldosterone. When proper amounts of these hormones are not produced, the metabolic and electrolyte balance is upset. Mineralocorticoids control the amount of potassium, salt and water in the body.
Addison's disease in dogs can occur in all breeds, age groups, both sexes, and can be life-threatening. Treatment involves taking hormones to replace those that are missing. This condition is fatal if left untreated.