Aldosterone-, corticosterone- and cortisol-secreting adrenocortical carcinoma in a dog: case report

J Vet Med Sci. 2008 Mar;70(3):317-20. doi: 10.1292/jvms.70.317.

Abstract

A 12-year-old, intact female beagle exhibited symptoms of polyuria-polydipsia and hyperorexia for two months. Blood tests showed elevated asparate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and creatine kinase levels, as well as marked hypokalemia. The results of adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation test showed elevated cortisol, aldosterone and corticosterone concentrations. Abdominal ultrasonography confirmed a mass in the left adrenal gland. Masses were also seen in the liver and caudal vena cava. Diagnosis was a tumor of the adrenal cortex with metastases. Trilostane administration was initiated. The dog initially showed improved demeanor as a result of regulating hormone secretion. However, after 88 days, the dog weakened rapidly, before dying on the 117th day. Pathological findings confirmed a diagnosis of adrenocortical carcinoma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Glands / diagnostic imaging
  • Adrenocortical Carcinoma / drug therapy
  • Adrenocortical Carcinoma / metabolism
  • Adrenocortical Carcinoma / pathology
  • Adrenocortical Carcinoma / veterinary*
  • Aldosterone / blood
  • Animals
  • Corticosterone / blood
  • Dihydrotestosterone / analogs & derivatives
  • Dihydrotestosterone / therapeutic use
  • Dog Diseases / drug therapy
  • Dog Diseases / metabolism*
  • Dog Diseases / pathology*
  • Dogs
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Female
  • Hydrocortisone / blood
  • Ultrasonography

Substances

  • Dihydrotestosterone
  • Aldosterone
  • trilostane
  • Corticosterone
  • Hydrocortisone