Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Dog with liver carcinoid tumor causing high cortisol and low potassium
By Churcher, R K·Published in Australian veterinary journal·1999·Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, United Kingdom·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Hepatic carcinoid, hypercortisolism and hypokalaemia in a dog.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A German Shepherd dog was experiencing muscle weakness due to low potassium levels, which was linked to high cortisol levels in the body. Tests showed that the dog had a neuroendocrine tumor in the liver, suspected to be causing the hormone imbalance. While the exact cause of the high cortisol and low potassium couldn't be confirmed, the diagnosis helped guide treatment. The dog may require ongoing management for these conditions, so it's important to work closely with a veterinarian for the best care plan.
People also search for: dog muscle weakness low potassium · German Shepherd high cortisol treatment · liver tumor in dogs
Abstract
A German Shepherd dog was diagnosed with periodic myopathy secondary to persistent hypokalaemia. Hormone analysis revealed excess cortisol secretion. A neuroendocrine carcinoma, thought to be a primary hepatic carcinoid, was detected in the liver. Ectopic adrenocorticotrophin hormone secretion was suspected as the cause of hypercortisolism and hypokalaemia, although this could not be confirmed by immunohistochemical staining.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10590787/