What Is Cushing's Disease in Dogs?

5. Diagnosis

To diagnose Cushing’s disease, a vet will start with a thorough physical exam and a review of the dog’s medical history. Blood and urine tests can show signs that point to Cushing’s, like diluted urine and high levels of certain liver enzymes. If these tests suggest Cushing’s, the vet might do further tests, like:

• ACTH Stimulation Test: Measures how well the adrenal glands respond to ACTH.
• Low-Dose Dexamethasone Suppression Test (LDDS): Checks how cortisol levels change in response to a synthetic steroid.
• Ultrasound: Helps detect tumors on the adrenal glands.

These tests help confirm the diagnosis and determine the underlying cause of the disease, which is crucial for choosing the right treatment plan. Accurate diagnosis is key to effectively managing Cushing’s disease and improving your dog’s quality of life.