endocrine
Cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism)
Answer
Cushing's disease management in dogs typically costs $1,500 to $3,500 per year, including trilostane medication, monitoring bloodwork, and quarterly ACTH stim tests. Initial workup with low-dose dexamethasone suppression test adds $400 to $900. Insurance covers Cushing's when not pre-existing; it is a chronic condition requiring lifelong treatment.
Signs to watch for
- 01Increased thirst and urination.
- 02Pot-bellied appearance and muscle wasting.
- 03Hair loss along the trunk, thin skin.
- 04Panting at rest, ravenous appetite.
Treatment options
- 01Trilostane (Vetoryl) — first-line medication, given once or twice daily.
- 02Mitotane (Lysodren) — older alternative, requires careful induction.
- 03Surgical removal of adrenal tumor for confirmed adrenal-dependent cases.
- 04Quarterly ACTH stimulation testing for dose monitoring.
Prognosis: manageable
Typical cost in the US
How insurance handles it
Chronic condition: monthly medication and quarterly monitoring continue for life. A plan with no per-condition limit and high annual cap is meaningful here.
Frequently asked
Pituitary-dependent Cushing's (about 85 percent of cases) is managed, not cured, with lifelong medication. Adrenal-dependent Cushing's (about 15 percent) can sometimes be cured by surgical removal of the adrenal tumor.