Veterinary Technician Practice Exam

Which of the following are signs of Cushing's disease?

1. Excessive urination

2. Increased thirst

3. Hair loss

4. All of the answers listed

The correct answer is: All of the answers listed

Cushing's disease, also known as hyperadrenocorticism, is a condition caused by an excess of cortisol in the body. The signs of Cushing's disease can vary, but common clinical manifestations include excessive urination, increased thirst, and hair loss, among others. Excessive urination, or polyuria, occurs because the elevated levels of cortisol affect the kidneys' ability to concentrate urine, leading to more frequent urination. This, in turn, prompts increased thirst (polydipsia), as the body tries to compensate for fluid loss. Hair loss, or alopecia, is another significant symptom associated with Cushing's disease. The hormonal changes associated with elevated cortisol levels can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle, resulting in thinning fur and patchy areas of hair loss. Given that all three of these signs—excessive urination, increased thirst, and hair loss—are direct manifestations of Cushing's disease, selecting all the answers listed provides a comprehensive representation of the condition's typical symptoms.