Endocrine Disorders

Common Endocrine Disorders:

1. Hypothyroidism:

   • Cause: Insufficient thyroid hormone production.
   • Treatment: Oral administration of synthetic thyroid hormone (e.g., levothyroxine) to replace deficient hormones. Regular monitoring of thyroid levels is crucial to adjust medication dosage.

2. Hyperthyroidism:

   • Cause: Overproduction of thyroid hormones.
   • Treatment: Medications (e.g., methimazole) to suppress thyroid hormone production, radioactive iodine therapy, or surgical removal of affected thyroid tissue (commonly in cats).

3. Diabetes Mellitus:

   • Cause: Inadequate insulin production or insulin resistance.
   • Treatment: Insulin therapy (injections or oral medications), dietary management (low-carbohydrate, high-fiber diets), and regular monitoring of blood glucose levels. Weight management and exercise are also important.

4. Cushing’s Syndrome (Hyperadrenocorticism):

   • Cause: Excessive cortisol production.
   • Treatment: Medications (e.g., trilostane, mitotane) to suppress cortisol production, surgical removal of adrenal tumors if present, and supportive care.

5. Addison’s Disease (Hypoadrenocorticism):

   • Cause: Insufficient adrenal hormone production.
   • Treatment: Hormone replacement therapy with glucocorticoids (e.g., prednisone) and mineralocorticoids (e.g., fludrocortisone). Regular monitoring of electrolyte levels and clinical signs is essential.