Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Atypical hypoadrenocorticism with intact zona glomerulosa of the adrenal cortex after long-term observation: a case report of a dog.
- Journal:
- The Journal of veterinary medical science
- Year:
- 2023
- Authors:
- Hatoya, Shingo et al.
- Affiliation:
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences · Japan
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
An 8-year-old male pointer was brought to the vet because he was very tired and had low levels of a protein called albumin in his blood. An ultrasound of his abdomen showed that both of his adrenal glands, which help regulate various body functions, were thinner than normal. After performing a specific test, the vet diagnosed him with atypical hypoadrenocorticism, a condition where the adrenal glands don't produce enough hormones, but without the usual electrolyte imbalances. He was treated with a low dose of prednisolone, a type of steroid, which helped improve his condition and normalized his blood tests. Unfortunately, the dog passed away 818 days later, and an autopsy revealed some damage to parts of his adrenal glands, but one area remained mostly normal.
Abstract
An 8-year-old intact male pointer presented with lethargy and hypoalbuminemia. On abdominal ultrasonography, both adrenal glands were reduced in thickness. Based on the ACTH stimulation test results and the absence of electrolyte abnormalities, the dog was diagnosed with atypical hypoadrenocorticism. After treatment with low-dose prednisolone, his general condition improved, and blood tests normalized. The dog died 818 days later, and a complete autopsy was performed. Histologically, the architecture of the zonae fasciculata and reticularis was disrupted in both adrenal glands; however, the zona glomerulosa remained relatively normal. In summary, in this study, we detailed the pathological presentation of atypical hypoadrenocorticism without electrolyte abnormalities.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36372430/