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Acute hepatopathy associated with mitotane administration in a dog
1Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523.
Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association
|July 11, 2006
Summary
Mitotane treatment for hyperadrenocorticism in dogs can cause severe liver damage. This case highlights the risk of mitotane-associated hepatic failure, emphasizing careful monitoring during treatment.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Toxicology
- Canine Health
Background:
- Hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing's disease) is a common endocrine disorder in dogs.
- Mitotane is a frequently used medication for managing hyperadrenocorticism.
- Alkaline phosphatase elevation is a common indicator of liver issues in dogs.
Observation:
- A dog with elevated alkaline phosphatase was treated with mitotane for suspected hyperadrenocorticism.
- The dog developed anorexia, jaundice, elevated liver enzymes, prolonged prothrombin time, and hypoglycemia.
- Histopathology confirmed significant hepatocellular loss.
Findings:
- The clinical signs and histopathological findings were consistent with drug-induced liver injury.
- Discontinuation of mitotane led to the dog's recovery with supportive care.
- This suggests mitotane can cause severe, potentially fatal, hepatic failure in dogs.
Implications:
- Veterinarians should be vigilant for signs of liver toxicity in dogs treated with mitotane.
- Close monitoring of liver enzymes and clinical signs is crucial during mitotane therapy.
- This case underscores the importance of considering drug-induced hepatotoxicity in differential diagnoses for liver disease in dogs.
