Addison’s Disease: A Practical Clinical Approach for the General Practitioner

Addison’s disease (hypoadrenocorticism) is often referred to as “the great pretender” due to its variable and nonspecific clinical presentation, making diagnosis both challenging and rewarding in general practice. This session will provide a practical, case-based approach to recognizing, diagnosing, and managing Addison’s disease in dogs, with emphasis on real-world application for the general practitioner. Attendees will review classic and atypical presentations, key laboratory abnormalities, diagnostic testing strategies, and common pitfalls in interpretation. The session will also cover emergency stabilization of Addisonian crisis, long-term management options, monitoring recommendations, and client communication strategies. Participants will leave with practical tools to improve diagnostic confidence, initiate appropriate therapy, and successfully manage patients with hypoadrenocorticism in everyday clinical practice.

• Recognize classic and atypical clinical presentations of Addison’s disease and identify key historical, physical examination, and laboratory findings suggestive of hypoadrenocorticism.
• Develop a practical diagnostic approach, including interpretation of electrolyte abnormalities, baseline cortisol screening, ACTH stimulation testing, and common diagnostic pitfalls.
• Learn evidence-based treatment strategies for both Addisonian crisis stabilization and long-term outpatient management, including mineralocorticoid and glucocorticoid supplementation.
• Gain practical guidance on monitoring, dose adjustments, and client communication to improve long-term patient outcomes and compliance.