Another Name: Hashimoto's disease

Disease Description: An autoimmune inflammatory disease of the thyroid gland (See #166, and 192.).

Inherit Mode: -

Disease Symptom: Thyroiditis or Hashimoto's disease will manifest through symptoms that are typical for dogs with a low thyroid gland function. Watch out for symptoms such as:Reduced metabolism and weight gain, even if the dog eats the same amount of food or even less than usual;Dry mouth and mucous membranes;Dry coat and skin;Hair loss;Lethargy;Elevated fever;Swelling of the joints.The dog may not present any symptoms when the disease debuts, but as it advances, he may display more visible symptoms.

Disease Cause: Thyroiditis is an immune system mediated disease and the exact causes of this condition are not known. There may be certain factors that can affect the immune system and determine it to attack its own cells, resulting in hypothyroidism. Some triggering factors may include:Exposure to toxins such as cigarette smoke or poisonous metals;Side effects of certain drugs;Administration of vaccines.Autoimmune thyroiditis is among the most common causes of hypothyroidism in canines.

Disease Diagnose: Hashimoto's disease can be diagnosed by performing a few tests that will assess the function of the thyroid gland. The levels of TSH, T3 and T4 will be measured. If the dog has hypothyroidism, these will have lower values than the normal for the dog’s breed.To detect thyroiditis, the vet will have to perform certain tests to assess the activity of the immune system.

Treat Method: The treatment for Hashimoto's disease will have to address the 2 main problems:The thyroid function;The immune system function

Breeder Advice: -

Disease Description Source: Link