Addison’s disease

or hypoadrenalcorticism is an endocrine disorder where either the pituitary gland fails to produce enough of a hormone (ACTH) that stimulates the adrenal gland to produce corticosteroids or the adrenal gland itself is damaged. Symptoms of Addison's disease are vague and may be characterized by weakness, weight loss, anorexia, and fatigue. Altered levels of sodium and potassium in the blood may indicate Addison's disease. A definitive diagnosis is made by performing a ACTH stimulation or reponse test. Once diagnosed, a pet will need medications for his/her entire life to replace the missing hormones.