Articles
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Cushing's disease, or hyperadrenocorticism, is the overproduction of cortisol hormone by a dog's body. The clinical signs of Cushing's disease are similar, regardless of the underlying cause of the disease. However, it is essential to identify the type of Cushing's disease as the treatment and prognosis differ slightly depending upon the form of the disease.
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Treatment for Cushing's disease using mitotane involves two phases: initiating phase and maintenance phase. Monitoring your dog's food and water intake is very important. This handout provides detailed treatment instructions for dogs prescribed mitotane. Follow your veterinarian's instructions carefully.
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Lymphoma is a type of cancer that is common in dogs. When it occurs in the skin, it is called cutaneous lymphoma, but this form is quite rare. Canine cutaneous lymphoma can present various clinical signs, including itching, alopecia (hair loss), scaly skin, skin redness, loss of skin color, ulcers, nodules, pustules, and plaques.
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Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) are microscopic bacteria found in fresh water, brackish water, and salt water. All animals, including dogs, cats, horses, livestock, mammals, fish, birds, and humans are susceptible to the toxins produced by cyanobacteria.
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Cyanosis is a bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes of the body caused by inadequate oxygen levels. Cyanosis is an emergency, and the root cause may be life-threatening and may or may not be reversible. Once back home, homecare instructions must be followed carefully.
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Cystine bladder stones appear to be the result of a genetic abnormality that prevents a dog from reabsorbing cystine from the kidneys. While bladder stones in general are somewhat common in dogs, cystine bladder stones are rare. Your veterinarian may be able to palpate the stones or may need to perform imaging studies such as a bladder ultrasound or a contrast radiographic study. There are two primary treatment strategies for treating cystine bladder stones in dogs: dietary therapy to dissolve the stones, or physical removal of the stones. Cystine stones have a high rate of recurrence, despite careful attention to diet and lifestyle.
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Cystitis means inflammation of the bladder. The most common cause of cystitis in dogs is bacterial infection. Other common causes include bladder stones, tumors or polyps in the bladder, and abnormal anatomy. The most common clinical sign is blood in the urine (hematuria). The first group of tests performed includes urinalysis, urine culture, and bladder palpation. Further diagnostics may include bladder radiographs, ultrasound, and contrast X-rays. Blood tests to look for systemic problems are also sometimes required. Treatment is based on the cause.
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True cysts are abnormal pockets in tissue that are filled with either liquid or solidified material. There are several types of true cysts, including follicular cysts, apocrine cysts, sebaceous cysts, dermoid cysts, and false cysts. The most common treatment is surgical removal.
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This handout describes and illustrates this condition, and discusses the causes, clinical signs, diagnosis, and treatment options for degenerative disc disease in dogs. Surgical intervention is specifically outlined and rule-outs for other conditions causing similar signs are also discussed.
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Degenerative joint disease is arthritis caused by deterioration and degeneration of tissues lining joints. This handout outlines signs, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis, and prevention.