Journal article

Publication year: 2010

Pages: 685-68+

Journal: Kleintierpraxis

Volume number: 55

Issue number: 12

ISSN: 0023-2076

Publisher: Schaper

Abstract: 
Feline hyperthyroidism Hyperthyroidism is the most common endocrine disorder in older cats. Since the recognition of feline hyperthyroidism in 1979, more and more animals have been found to be affected. Feline hyperthyroidism is mainly caused by benign nodular hyperplasia or a functional thyroid adenoma that produces the free or protein-bound thyroid hormones thyroxin (T4) and triiodthyronine (T3).Thyroid carcinomas are uncommon. Affected animals are rarely younger than eight years. T4 and T3 influence many organ systems. Typical clinical signs are weight loss, hyperactivity, dyspnoea or vomiting. Dermatological problems, lethargy or anorexia are uncommon symptoms. Possible clinical findings are palpable thyroid nodules, myocardial hypertrophy, hypertension and weight loss. The most frequent laboratory abnormalities are elevations of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (AP). More than 90% of affected cats show elevation in one of these two enzymes. Measurement of T4 is diagnostic in the majority of cases. Additional diagnostic tools are measurement of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH),T3-suppression test and TSH- or thyroid releasing hormone stimulation test. Enlargement of the thyroid glands can be measured using diagnostic imaging like ultrasonography and scintigraphy. Thyroid scintigraphy also analyses thyroidal function, ensures diagnosis and can be used to plan thyroidectomy or radioiodine treatment. Available therapies are radioiodine, medical management with methimazole or carbimazole, and thyroidectomy. With any therapy, renal function has to be monitored because hyperthyroidism causes an increased glomerular filtration rate which can mask a potential kidney disease.

Harvard Citation style: Mathes, A. and Neiger, R. (2010) Feline hyperthyroidism, Kleintierpraxis, 55(12), pp. 685-68+

APA Citation style: Mathes, A., & Neiger, R. (2010). Feline hyperthyroidism. Kleintierpraxis. 55(12), 685-68+.