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CANINE HYPOTHYROIDISM
Hypothyroidism is a condition where the body is not producing enough thyroid hormones for normal function. Signs include but are not limited to: hair loss: hyperpigmented skin; weight gain; heat seeking; “rat tail”; poorly functioning immune system; seborrhea; and recurring skin diseases.
A blood test can be used to distinguish between true hypothyroidism and a problem called euthyroid-sic-syndrome where the body has turned the thyroid gland off as a protective function due to some other disease. We recommend a thyroid panel through Michigan State
Endocrinology Laboratory to test levels of thyroid stimulation hormone (TSH), T4 and free T4 by dialysis. If the TSH and fT4 are normal, no thyroid disease. If the TSH and fT4 are low, euthyroid-sic-syndrome. We must look for another problem. If the TSH is high and fT4 is low, then hypothyroidism and treatment should be continued for life. Recheck a simple T4 level in 30 days at 4-6 hours post medication to monitor dosage level and annually after that.
Please note that the total T4 that we run as a follow up test is a good test for monitoring therapy but it is an inappropriate test for initial diagnosis of true hypothyroidism as T4 values may be normal to low in hypothyroid dogs and low due to medications, stress, and concurrent illnesses.
Skin and hair coat problems should resolve in 6-12 weeks after therapy has started. If your pet does not respond appropriately to supplementation, a profile should be submitted to Michigan State Endocrinology Laboratory to do further testing.
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