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Effects of continuous alpha (1-24) ACTH infusion in the dog
Hormone and Metabolic Research = Hormon- Und Stoffwechselforschung = Hormones Et Metabolisme
|February 1, 1985
Summary
Chronic adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) infusion in dogs caused hormonal and hematologic changes. These effects mimicked naturally occurring canine hyperadrenocorticism, offering insights into the disease.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Endocrinology
- Canine Physiology
Background:
- Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) regulates adrenal steroidogenesis.
- Understanding ACTH's effects is crucial for diagnosing and managing canine endocrine disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the physiological and biochemical effects of chronic ACTH infusion in dogs.
- To compare these effects to spontaneous pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism.
Main Methods:
- Dogs received continuous intravenous infusion of alpha (1-24) ACTH for two weeks.
- Plasma hormone levels, hematologic parameters, serum electrolytes, and liver enzyme activities were monitored.
- Adrenal gland weight and cortisol response to exogenous ACTH were assessed post-infusion.
Main Results:
- Continuous ACTH infusion led to elevated plasma ACTH, cortisol, and progesterone.
- Significant hematologic changes included neutrophilia, monocytosis, lymphopenia, eosinopenia, and reduced hematocrit.
- Increased serum alkaline phosphatase and alanine aminotransferase activities were observed, alongside hepatocellular vacuolization.
Conclusions:
- Chronic ACTH administration induces significant hematologic, biochemical, and morphologic alterations in dogs.
- These changes closely resemble those seen in canine pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism.
- The study provides a model for understanding ACTH-induced physiological changes relevant to canine endocrinopathies.