1. Home
  2. Home & Garden
  3. Dogs

"Iatrogenic Cushing's"

by Krista Mifflin
for About.com

Definition:

    Cushing's Disease, or Hyperadrenocorticism, is the production of an excess of adrenal hormone, or, more particularly, corticosteroids. Iatrogenic Cushing's Disease is caused by the frequent use of cortisol. The excess amount of cortisol tells the adrenal glands that they can halt production of cortisol in the body, which causes them to decrease in size.
Symptoms
    Drastic increase in thirst
    Increase in appetite
    "Pot belly" due to the enlarging of the liver
    Weakened abdomen muscles
    Hair loss (without itchiness)
    Lethargy
Available Treatments
    The treatment for Iatrogenic Cushing's Disease is a slow withdrawal of cortisol. A dramatic decrease in cortisol before the adrenal glands have recovered can result in severe consequences, like vomiting, diarrhea, or vascular collapse, even death.

Explore Dogs

About.com Special Features

Home Allergy Center

Banish mess, reduce allergens, and maintain a clean, healthy home. More >

Home Improvements Made Easy

Inspirational ideas and expert tips to help you pull off your next DIY project. More >

  1. Home
  2. Home & Garden
  3. Dogs
  4. Health
  5. About Dogs - Iatrogenic Cushing's - Dog Disease Glossary

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.