Hyperadrenocorticism treated with metyrapone followed by bilateral adrenalectomy in a cat

J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2000 Sep 1;217(5):691-4, 673. doi: 10.2460/javma.2000.217.691.

Abstract

A 6-year-old spayed female cat was evaluated for uncontrolled diabetes mellitus and poor hair coat. Clinicopathologic abnormalities included high serum activity of liver enzymes, hyperglycemia, hypercholesterolemia, glucosuria, and an exaggerated response to ACTH stimulation. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed large adrenal glands. Hyperadrenocorticism was diagnosed. Treatment for a facial abscess was instituted along with administration of metyrapone for hyperadrenocorticism. After stabilization, bilateral adrenalectomy was performed. The cat recovered without complications and has remained clinically normal for 5 months with treatment of desoxycorticosterone pivalate and prednisone. Treatment with metyrapone appeared to stabilize the cat metabolically and clinically prior to surgery.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adrenalectomy / veterinary*
  • Adrenocortical Hyperfunction / diagnosis
  • Adrenocortical Hyperfunction / drug therapy
  • Adrenocortical Hyperfunction / surgery
  • Adrenocortical Hyperfunction / veterinary*
  • Animals
  • Cat Diseases / diagnosis
  • Cat Diseases / drug therapy*
  • Cat Diseases / surgery*
  • Cats
  • Female
  • Metyrapone / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Metyrapone