Cushing's Disease is a disease caused by long-term, abnormally high levels of steroids in the body. These steroids are called glucocorticoids, and are not the steroids that build muscle. Glucocorticoids can be available as medications, such as dexamethasone and prednisone, but are also produced in the animals body by the adrenal glands. Whether given as medications, or produced in the body, silmilar effects can be seen with long-term high levels.
There are several different tests for the disease. None of the tests are 100% definitive. Because of this, your veterinarian may want to perform a number of different tests. It may also be important to determine why the adrenal glands are overproducing steroids. An ultrasound can be used to look at the appearance of the adrenal glands, and to look for changes in the liver that would be expected from long-term high corticosteroid levels. However, unrelated diseases can cause long-term stimulation of the adrenal glands, and therefore similar changes.
The classic treatment for Cushing's disease is a drug called mitotane (Lysodren). Mitotane causes destruction of the overactive adrenal gland. A drug called trilostene has become available for the treatment of Cushing's disease. It does not destroy the adrenal gland, and instead interferes with steroid production. Regardless which drug is used, the treatment must closely monitored, especially when treatment is first started. The treatment can be dangerous if not monitored closely.
