Adrenocortical insufficiency in the dog

Primary adrenocortical insufficiency is described in 3 dogs. Clinical signs included marked depression, vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness and bradycardia. Diagnosis was based on clinical signs and biochemical findings of hyperkalaemia, hyponatraemia and a lowered plasma Na+ : K+ ratio. Treatment during the acute illness consisted of intravenous fluids and hydrocortisone sodium succinate. Fludrocortisone acetate has maintained all dogs in good health. One dog was on treatment for 4 years.