Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
High sex hormones found in dogs with sudden vision loss syndrome
By Carter, Renee T et al.·Published in Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association·2009·Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Elevations in sex hormones in dogs with sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome (SARDS).
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A group of dogs diagnosed with sudden vision loss due to sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome (SARDS) often showed signs of high cortisol levels, which can indicate a condition called hyperadrenocorticism (HAC). In a study of 13 affected dogs, 11 had elevated sex hormones, and 9 had high cortisol levels. Many of these dogs also had high blood pressure and protein in their urine. The findings suggest that testing for hormone levels and monitoring blood pressure could be beneficial for dogs with SARDS. Treatment options may vary based on the underlying hormonal issues identified.
People also search for: dog sudden vision loss · SARDS in dogs · high cortisol in dogs · dog eye problems treatment · hyperadrenocorticism symptoms in dogs
Abstract
Dogs diagnosed with sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome (SARDS) commonly are presented with concurrent clinical, physical, and historical findings consistent with hyperadreno-corticism (HAC) at the time of vision loss. Thirteen dogs diagnosed with SARDS on the basis of complete ophthalmic examination and extinguished bright-flash electroretinogram were evaluated for steroid hormonal abnormalities. Signalment, case history, physical examination, and clinicopathological findings were recorded. Serum cortisol and sex-hormone concentrations were measured before and after adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation. Clinical signs of HAC, systemic hypertension, and proteinuria were commonly found in dogs with SARDS. Elevations in one or more sex hormones were found in 11 (85%) of 13 dogs (95% confidence interval [CI] 65% to 100%); cortisol was elevated in nine (69%) of 13 dogs (95% CI 44% to 94%). A minority of dogs (three [23%] of 13; 95% CI 0.2% to 46%) exhibited only an increase in adrenal sex hormones. Only one dog had completely normal ACTH stimulation test results. Symptoms of HAC were associated with abnormal ACTH stimulation results. Routine ACTH stimulation testing to evaluate cortisol and sex hormones, blood pressure screening, and urinalysis are recommended in these animals.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19723843/