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VETERINARY HANDBOOK
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ADRENAL
MISCELLANEOUS |
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Ferret Adrenal Disease |
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Adrenal disease is commonly seen
in ferrets over 3 years old and is caused by adrenal gland tumours
usually associated with the left adrenal gland (60% - 70%).
Females appear to be more affected than males (70%). Clinical
signs include significant hair loss, muscle wastage, aggression
and vulval enlargement in females.
Diagnosis can be confirmed by assaying the adrenal sex hormones,
oestradiol (E2),
17-Hydroxy-Progesterone (OHP)
and cortisol. |
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Adrenal Sex Hormone Imbalance in Dogs |
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Also known as the Sex Hormone Alopaecia Profile (SHAP).
Adrenal sex hormone imbalance or congenital adrenal hyperplasia-like
syndrome is a recently described disorder in dogs. The clinical
signs are symmetrical alopecia and hyperpigmentation on the
rump, perineum, caudal thighs, neck tail and trunk, other
areas being generally spared. Presentation is similar to the
previously described growth hormone (GH) responsive alopecia
and it is now thought that although decreased levels of GH
may be a contributing factor, these are secondary to the sex
hormone imbalance. The condition is thought to be due to a
partial deficiency in glucocorticoid synthesis which results
in the accumulation of the adrenal sex hormones that are precursors
for these steroids. Certain breeds are predisposed - Pomeranians
and Chow Chows.
Adrenal sex hormones are also useful in assessing male
dogs who are attractive to other dogs (male and
female).
NOTE: Recent studies have suggested that
some dogs with HAC do not test positive by conventional tests
(ACTH Stim and LDDST), but will show elevated levels of sex
hormones, including OHP. It is suggested these dogs are also
tested using the SHAP profile.
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SHAP Testing Protocol |
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Adrenal sex hormone status is investigated
using a standard ACTH stimulation test. In addition to Cortisol
response the sensitive marker 17-OH-Progesterone (OHP) is also
measured before and after ACTH administration.
Interpretation
In normal dogs the basal OHP level is less than 3.0 nmol/L (usually
undetectable (<1.0 nmol/L)) and after stimulation with ACTH
normal dogs show an increase in OHP up to 4.0 nmol/L. Dogs with
a possible sex hormone imbalance often have a raised basal OHP
level and show a significant increase after stimulation. Dogs
with HAC show a significant increase after stimulation. Cortisol
levels must be normal before and after ACTH. |
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