Nanismo hipofisário canino: revisão de literatura e relato de caso

Abstract

Canine pituitary dwarfism is caused by lack of GH resulting in proportionate dwarfism. This condition is characterized by a hereditary pituitary hypofunction, commonly seen in German Shepherd dogs. The pituitary dwarfism may be simply due to GH deficiency or due to a combination of pituitary hormones deficiency. Animals showing generalized skin changes such as alopecia sparing limbs and head, absence of pruritus, fluffy, puppy-like hair coat that comes off easily, should be investigated for canine pituitary dwarfism. Stimulation of GH and dosage of IGF-1 must be performed in order to diagnose the disease. Treatment consists of GH replacement or administration of progestins in order to promote GH secretion by cells of the mammary gland. This paper aims to briefly review and report a case of pituitary dwarfism presented at the Veterinary Hospital at the Federal University of Minas Gerais.