AN EXCEPTIONAL TRIPLE ENDOCRINOPATHIC DISORDER; SCHMIDT'S SYNDROME IN A DOG

Abstract

Polyglandular deficiency syndromes result from multiple endocrine failures and describe a combination of two or more organ-specific autoimmune disorders. Endocrine disorders may sometimes be deceptive, as a diagnosis of one failure may lead to a false satisfaction of the case, despite the resistance to treatment. The present case describes the Schmidt syndrome of a twelve-year-old, intact female mixed breed dog previously diagnosed with hypoadrenocorticism and inadequate response to treatment. Hypothyroidism and diabetes mellitus were diagnosed with a positive Antinuclear Antibody test. The treatment was initiated, resulting in clinical improvement with the absence of lethargy and seizures in a couple of days, and metabolic values returned to normal limits in two weeks. This is the first case of Schmidt syndrome (Polyglandular Adenopathy type 2) with triple endocrinopathy in a dog presenting immune intervention. We underline that the comorbid endocrinopathies with probable immune etiology must be considered in canine patients with suboptimal response to treatment for hypothyroidism or hypoadrenocorticism.