This study describes a primary hypoadrenocorticism in a mixed-breed six years old bitch examined at the Federal University of Santa Maria Veterinary Hospital. The animal presented lethargy, vomiting, anorexia, weakness, shaking, polyuria and polydipsia. During a month the animal was medicated for chronic renal failure, showing no clinical progress. Laboratory exams evidenced a normocytic normochromic anemia, azotemia, hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, hypercalcemia and hyperphosphatemia. Microcardia was observed on radiographic exam. The diagnosis was confirmed by altered electrolytic pattern, mainly by sodium:potassium ratio and by corticotrophin stimulation test, which resulted in low plasma cortisol. After the diagnosis fludrocortisone acetate therapy has begun, showing a clinical evolution after two months treatment.
hypoadrenocorticism; mineralocorticoids; glucocorticoids; dogs