Hypoadrenocorticism

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Hypoadrenocorticism (Addisons Disease) is insufficient secretion of  mineralocorticoid and glucocorticoid or just glucocorticoid by the adrenal glands.  During AIHA treatment, glucocorticoid secretions can drop dramatically as the adrenal glands become inactive or go to sleep, so tapering or withdrawing glucocorticoid drugs such as prednisone too quickly can cause symptoms of Addisons Disease or more critically an Addisonian crisis, in which case immediate emergency veterinary treatment is needed.  Great care is need when reducing glucocorticoid doses to avoid hypoadrenocorticism or Addisonian Crisis, which can be fatal if untreated.

Symptoms of hypoadrenocorticism include slow pulse (bradycardia), weakness & lethargy, shivering, extreme thirst, increased frequency & volume of urination, dehydration, anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, weak femoral pulse & possible abdominal pain.

This item will be expanded at a later date.

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