![]() ![]() In a pet with CD, a tumor in the pituitary gland or, less commonly, in one of the adrenal glands, causes the cortex to release an excess amount of cortisol. The pituitary gland, a tiny gland found at the base of the brain, releases adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH), which in turn tells the adrenal glands to release cortisol, also called glucocorticoids. These two peanut-sized glands, situated in front of the kidneys, produce hormones to help the body perform essential functions. Cortisol is controlled by the adrenal cortex, located on the outer layer of adrenal glands. You may have heard of the stress hormone cortisol and the associated “fight or flight” response. Treatment is expensive and ongoing, and it requires consistent monitoring. ![]() This condition, usually caused by a tumor in the pituitary gland, is far more common than we realize, but because of the complex diagnostic testing required, it’s underdiagnosed. One cause your veterinarian may test for is Cushing’s disease (CD), also known as hyperadrenocorticism. If your older dog is drinking and urinating more than usual, it could be caused by a variety of reasons. ![]()
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