Addisons Disease

Hi,

my 9 year old mini foxy cross has Addisons Disease.  She was diagnosed 5 years ago.  She has been treated with Prednisoline and Fludrocortisone.  Although she is much better with the treatment than before, she has still not been 100%.  Then about a year ago she developed bloody diarrhea, anorexia, lethargy (extreme) and a number of weird neuro type signs.

She was admitted to hospital placed on IV fluids and kept NBM.  She got worse and worse.  Her blood tests showed bilirubin levels not compatible with life (in excess of 2500) and an amylase of 1800.  An ultrasound of her liver showed a large tumour.

I was told to take her home and spoil her and say my goodbyes.  I was told she would be dead with 48 hours.  I was given the Vets mobile (?cell) number and told that I could call at any time of the day or night, if she was in pain or distress and the Vet would come out immediately and euthanase her for me.  All treatment was stopped.

Well, a week later she seemed to be getting better. (although, she did turn yellow).  So, on my own responsibility, I restarted her Fludrocortisone on a much lower dose than she had been getting, I also added half a salt tablet.  I didn't restart the Prednisolone.  She improved and improved and then got better than she had been in years.

After about 6 months, I took her back to the vet and the blood tests were all normal for the first time in 5 years her sodium was normal, her potassium was down to normal, her cholesterol had normalised and all her liver enzymes and kidney function was normal.  The new ultrasound showed NO tumour in her liver.

We are all astonished.  She has turned into one very happy, healthy, vigorous, inquisitive little dog.  I was talking to an Endocrinologist (human type) and she said that it sounds as if my little dog may have an exogenous (?) hormone secreting tumour , that is supplying some of her glucocorticoid needs.

Is my dog unusual ? I think she's special but then, I'm biased.

Thanks

Chirley

[Misfits4Me]

Chirley, No matter how you look at this one, what a wonderful Christmas gift you got!!! Possibly a "Christmas Miracle"?  I'm so excited for you and your little one.....Thanks so much for posting a positive story...I really needed one today.......Merry Christmas.....Karla