Critical illness-related corticosteroid insufficiency in a dog with septic shock.
OBJECTIVE
To describe a case of hydrocortisone-responsive hypotension and critical illness-related corticosteroid insufficiency (CIRCI) in a dog with septic shock.


METHODS
A dog with aspiration pneumonia developed septic shock with pressor-refractory hypotension. A standard ACTH stimulation test was performed that showed a blunted cortisol response consistent with CIRCI. Reversal of shock was achieved within 2 hours of hydrocortisone administration, and complete weaning from pressors was accomplished over the subsequent 8 hours. The patient recovered and was discharged from the hospital. An ACTH stimulation test performed 1 month after hospital discharge showed normal adrenal responsiveness consistent with resolution of CIRCI.


CONCLUSIONS
This case is the first published report of hydrocortisone-responsive hypotension and transient CIRCI associated with naturally occurring septic shock in a dog.
Peyton
Jamie L
JL
Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA. mimijl@mac.com
Burkitt
Jamie M
JM
D000309:Adrenal Insufficiency / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology / Q000662:veterinary*; D000818:Animals; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D016638:Critical Illness; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology; D004285:Dogs; D006854:Hydrocortisone / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use; D008297:Male; D012772:Shock, Septic / Q000150:complications / Q000662:veterinary*
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D006854:Hydrocortisone