Adrenal Disease in Small Mammals

Abstract

Adrenal gland disease has been described as a rare disease in pet rabbits and rodents. Hyperadrenocorticism with excessive secretion of corticosteroids is most commonly observed in guinea pigs and hamsters, with dermatologic signs similar to those seen in dogs. Diagnosis is based on clinical signs, diagnostic imaging such as abdominal ultrasound, and determination of the blood hormone concentrations. In guinea pigs, an adrenocorticotrophic hormone stimulation test with the measurement of salivary cortisol or corticosterone concentrations is recommended. The recommended treatment of adrenal disease in guinea pigs and hamsters is oral administration of trilostane or ketoconazole; surgical treatment is also possible.

Keywords: Adrenal; Cushing; Guinea pig; Hamster; Hyperadrenocorticism; Hypertestosteronism; Rabbit; Trilostane.