BATISTA, S. T. M; http://lattes.cnpq.br/1288371114175353; BATISTA, Samara Tereza Moraes.
Abstract:
Hypothyroidism and canine hyperadrenocorticism are multisystemic diseases with a wide
range of clinical signs that affects middle-aged animals. In hypothyroidism, a decrease in the
circulating level of thyroxine influences the electrophysiological, systolic and diastolic
functions, as well as cardiac rate and output. Hypercortisolism in patients with
hyperadrenocorticism (HAC) may result in accumulation of myocardial lipids along with
systolic and diastolic impairment. In this context, the objective of this study was to report
and relate the cardiovascular changes observed in a dog with hypothyroidism and
hyperadrenocorticism examined at the Small Animal Medical Clinic (CMPA), at the
Veterinary Hospital, UFCG, Patos-PB. A canine, 11-year-old Cocker Spaniel had been
diagnosed with hypothyroidism upon completion of his second year of life. Since then, he
has been accompanied by Veterinarians at CMPA. To identify the pathologies, the veterinary
team performed physical and clinical exams, hemograms, biochemical and electrolytic
evaluations, hormonal dosages, ultrasound, X-ray, Doppler echocardiogram and
electrocardiogram. Upon physical examination, a bulging abdomen with signs of ascites,
cough and dry seborrhea were observed. Tachycardia, tachypnea and hypertension were
evidenced during clinical follow-up. High concentrations of the enzymes alkaline
phosphatase (557.9mg/dL) and alanine aminotransferase (228.9 mg/dL) were observed.
Dosage of cortisol via low dose dexamethasone suppression test resulted in conclusive
values for pituitary-dependent HAC. In the Doppler echocardiogram, a decrease in left
ventricular shortening fraction and ventricular ejection fraction were observed. After
treatment for hypothyroidism (levothyroxine sodium), dilated cardiomyopathy (digoxin,
pimobendam, inalapril and furosemide) and HAC (trilostane), parameters in the Doppler
echocardiogram were observed in the normal range for the species. This case report
establishes information about the importance of the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of
patients with hypothyroidism by the Veterinarian.