ADDISONS (HAC)
Addison's (Hypoadrenocorticism (HAC))
Inherited endocrine disorder. A disease where autoimmune or other causes of destruction of the adrenal glands produces a deficiency of corticosteroids) results from a deficiency of the hormones that enable us to adapt to stress. Symptom onset causes vomiting, diarrhea and weakness. The classic presentation of Addison’s Disease is shock and collapse, Addison's disease occurs most commonly in young to middle aged dogs, most of which are female. Megaesophagus (Idiopathic) can be caused by Addison's Disease. Another good resource is AddisonDogs.com, "A diverse collection of individuals striving toward healthy, active lives for our dogs with Addison's disease."
Important Resources:
http://www.marvistavet.com/html/addison_s_disease.html
http://www.addisondogs.com/
Support Group: http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/k9Addisons/
You may also wish to read
http://pethealth.petwellbeing.com/wiki/Dog_Hyperthyroidism (hyper - Cushings vs. hypo - Addisons)
http://www.cah.com/dr_library/hypoadnew.html
Because of the often vague nature of clinical signs and inconsistent laboratory abnormalities, Addison's disease is often overlooked in the differential diagnosis.
Addison's Pedigree Yahoo Group Discussion:
http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/k9AD_Pedigrees/-- Edited by Moderator Peg on Thursday 21st of May 2009 12:22:01 PM
