Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Using baseline cortisol to monitor dogs on trilostane for adrenal
By Cook, Audrey K & Bond, Karen G·Published in Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·2010·Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Evaluation of the use of baseline cortisol concentration as a monitoring tool for dogs receiving trilostane as a treatment for hyperadrenocorticism.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A study involving 103 dogs with hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing's disease) found that measuring baseline cortisol levels could help monitor their treatment with trilostane, a common medication. By checking cortisol levels before and after treatment, veterinarians could determine if the dogs' adrenal glands were functioning properly without needing more complicated tests. The results showed that specific cortisol levels could indicate whether the treatment was effective or if adjustments were needed. This approach could save pet owners time and money while ensuring their dogs receive the right care.
People also search for: dog Cushing's disease treatment · trilostane monitoring for dogs · cortisol levels in dogs with Cushing's
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To determine whether a single measurement of cortisol concentration can be used to monitor dogs receiving trilostane for hyperadrenocorticism. DESIGN: Controlled drug efficacy trial. ANIMALS: 103 client-owned dogs. PROCEDURES: Results of ACTH stimulation tests before and during trilostane treatment were evaluated. Each cortisol concentration after ACTH stimulation was classified as indicative of excessive, acceptable, or inadequate control of adrenal gland function, as outlined by the trilostane manufacturer. Baseline cortisol concentrations before and during trilostane treatment were evaluated; target variables were defined, and sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values were determined. RESULTS: Results of 103 and 342 ACTH stimulation tests before and during treatment were evaluated. In this population, baseline cortisol concentrations ≥ 1.3 µg/dL accurately excluded excessive suppression (defined by cortisol concentration after ACTH stimulation < 1.5 µg/dL) in 254 of 259 (98%) dogs. In addition, baseline cortisol concentrations ≤ 2.9 µg/dL correctly excluded inadequate control (defined by cortisol concentration after ACTH stimulation > 9.1 µg/dL) in 200 of 211 (95%) dogs. During trilostane treatment, baseline cortisol concentrations between 1.3 and either 2.9 µg/dL or ≤ 50% of the pretreatment baseline cortisol concentration correctly predicted acceptable control of adrenal gland function in 147 of 168 (88%) dogs. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Evaluation of a baseline cortisol concentration collected 4 to 6 hours after trilostane administration in dogs with hyperadrenocorticism provided clinically useful information about control of adrenal gland function. Many dogs receiving trilostane may be adequately monitored without the expense and inconvenience of an ACTH stimulation test.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20919845/