PORT ST. LUCIE — Hyperadrenocorticism, better known as Cushings
disease, is a relatively common disorder of middle-aged to older
dogs. The disorder is caused by an increase in the production of
corticosteroids from the adrenal gland. The adrenal gland
normally produces corticosteroids when the blood levels drop or
when the body needs an increase in the level of steroids like in
a fight or flight syndrome. The pituitary gland produces
hormones that stimulate the adrenal gland to produce
corticosteroids. If there is a tumor in the pituitary gland, it
will produce steroids even when blood levels are adequate. If
there is a tumor of the adrenal gland, it will produce steroids
even if there are adequate levels in the blood, and no
stimulation from the pituitary gland. The resulting clinical
signs are increased thirst and urination, increased appetite,
and panting. Dogs that have Cushings disease tend to be
overweight and have pendulous abdomens, have thin skin, and are
predisposed to infections because steroids ca