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Questions and Answers
Which clinical sign is commonly associated with hypothyroidism in dogs?
Which clinical sign is commonly associated with hypothyroidism in dogs?
Which thyroid hormone testing result indicates hypothyroidism?
Which thyroid hormone testing result indicates hypothyroidism?
What is a common treatment for hypothyroidism in dogs?
What is a common treatment for hypothyroidism in dogs?
Which of the following is not a sign of hyperthyroidism in animals?
Which of the following is not a sign of hyperthyroidism in animals?
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What clinical sign can indicate potential thyroid disease in senior cats?
What clinical sign can indicate potential thyroid disease in senior cats?
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What is an indication of successful treatment for hypothyroidism?
What is an indication of successful treatment for hypothyroidism?
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Which of the following symptoms is most likely associated with hyperthyroidism?
Which of the following symptoms is most likely associated with hyperthyroidism?
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What is a potential consequence of excessive dosage of thyroid hormone treatment in dogs?
What is a potential consequence of excessive dosage of thyroid hormone treatment in dogs?
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What is the primary purpose of Radioactive Iodine-131 in hyperthyroid diseases?
What is the primary purpose of Radioactive Iodine-131 in hyperthyroid diseases?
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Which of the following is true regarding antithyroid drug therapy?
Which of the following is true regarding antithyroid drug therapy?
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In dietary treatment for hyperthyroidism, what is the primary dietary restriction?
In dietary treatment for hyperthyroidism, what is the primary dietary restriction?
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What are the potential risks associated with thyroidectomy?
What are the potential risks associated with thyroidectomy?
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Which complication can arise as a secondary disorder in hyperthyroidism?
Which complication can arise as a secondary disorder in hyperthyroidism?
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What is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in dogs?
What is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in dogs?
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Which breeds are genetically predisposed to hypothyroidism?
Which breeds are genetically predisposed to hypothyroidism?
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At what age is hypothyroidism most commonly diagnosed in dogs?
At what age is hypothyroidism most commonly diagnosed in dogs?
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What term is used to describe the main type of hypothyroidism resulting from destruction of the gland itself?
What term is used to describe the main type of hypothyroidism resulting from destruction of the gland itself?
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Which of the following is considered a secondary cause of hypothyroidism in dogs?
Which of the following is considered a secondary cause of hypothyroidism in dogs?
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Study Notes
Hypothyroidism in Dogs
- Definition: Thyroid hormone deficiency, leading to decreased metabolic rate.
- Prevalence: Common disease in dogs, particularly females aged 6-10 years.
- Genetic Predisposition: Certain breeds are more prone, including Golden Retrievers, Labs, Dobermans, Irish Setters, Miniature Schnauzers, Spaniels, Dachshunds, Cocker Spaniels, and Airedale Terriers.
- Causes (95% of cases): Primarily destruction of the thyroid gland itself, often due to lymphocytic thyroiditis (autoimmune disease) or idiopathic atrophy. Secondary causes (less common) include tumors or congenital conditions.
Clinical Signs of Hypothyroidism in Dogs
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Metabolic & Dermatological Signs:
- Lethargy
- Weight gain
- Altered skin/coat: alopecia (hair loss), excessive shedding, dry skin. Hair loss on the tail is common ("rat tail").
- Sun seeking behavior
- Recurrent skin infections (UTIs)
- Reproductive problems (anestrus)
Hypothyroidism in Dogs - Diagnosis
- Clinical Signs: Careful attention to symptoms, especially weight gain and lethargy.
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Blood Tests:
- Possible hypercholesterolemia.
- Low levels of T3 and free T4.
- High levels of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH).
Hypothyroidism in Dogs - Treatment
- Lifelong Hormone Replacement: Supplementing with thyroid hormone.
- Oral Medication (BID): Typically successful.
- Dosage Monitoring: Regular monitoring is essential to adjust dosage as needed.
- Regular Checkups: Recheck blood work 1-2 times yearly after stabilizing treatment.
- Treatment Success Indication: Clinical improvement.
Hyperthyroidism in Cats
- Prevalence: Common disease in middle-aged and older cats.
- Causes: Excess of T3 and T4 due to thyroid adenoma (tumor) or possibly thyroid carcinoma.
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Diagnosis:
- Increased T4 in serum chemistry is diagnostic if clinical signs are present.
- If high but no clinical signs, recheck in two weeks.
- Enlarged thyroid glands may be palpable.
- Diagnositic imaging (e.g. ultrasound) or scintigraphy (nuclear imaging) might be used to confirm diagnosis.
Clinical Signs of Hyperthyroidism in Cats
- Weight loss
- Polyphagia (increased appetite)
- Occasional Vomiting
- Increased Appetite
- Tachycardia (rapid heart rate) with or without a murmur.
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Blindness and retinal detachment
- Increased vocalization, especially at night.
Hyperthyroidism in Cats - Treatment
- Radioactive Iodine (I-131): Curative treatment of choice, simple, effective. Requires hospitalization while radioactive material is removed from the body.
- Antithyroid Drug Therapy: Daily, lifelong medications to block hormone synthesis. Medication examples are: methimazole and carbimazole.
- Diet (lifelong): Iodine-deficient diet, indicated if not a candidate for radioiodine treatment or surgery. No treats, prey or scraps allowed with this diet.
- Surgery (Thyroidectomy): Thyroid gland removal. Potentially curative but with anesthesia risks. Requires competent surgeon to remove the thyroid gland while sparing adjacent parathyroid glands. Supplementation with thyroid hormone will be required after surgery.
Hyperthyroidism - Complications
- Thyrotoxic hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: A heart disease.
- Systemic hypertension: High blood pressure.
- Chronic kidney disease (CKD): A common complication.
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Description
Explore the causes, symptoms, and prevalence of hypothyroidism in dogs. This quiz covers the clinical signs, genetic predispositions, and common breeds affected by this condition. Test your knowledge on this crucial health issue for canines.
