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Pituitary gland

A representation of Pituitary gland

The pituitary gland, also known as the hypophysis, is an important hormone gland located in the brain of dogs and other mammals. It controls many bodily functions such as growth, metabolism, reproduction and stress response. In this blog post, you can find out more about the tasks, diseases and treatment options for the pituitary gland in dogs.

Functions of the pituitary gland

The pituitary gland consists of two parts: the anterior lobe and the posterior lobe. The anterior lobe produces various hormones that stimulate or inhibit other glands in the body. For example:

  • Growth hormone (STH) promotes the growth of bones, muscles and organs.
  • Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) stimulates the thyroid gland to produce the hormone thyroxine, which influences the metabolism.
  • Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulates the adrenal glands to produce the hormone cortisol, which is important in cases of stress and inflammation.
  • Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) control reproduction in female and male dogs.

The posterior lobe stores and releases two hormones that are produced in the diencephalon. For example:

  • Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) regulates the water balance in the body by instructing the kidneys to excrete more or less water.
  • Oxytocin promotes labor during childbirth and milk production during lactation.

Diseases of the pituitary gland

The pituitary gland can be affected by various diseases that lead to a deficiency or excess of certain hormones. The most common are

  • Pituitary dwarfism: This is a congenital disorder in which the pituitary gland produces too little growth hormone. The result is reduced growth and delayed development of the dog. The symptoms include a small physique, a thin coat, poor immune defenses and a short life expectancy. The disease cannot be cured, but lifelong treatment with growth hormone can improve the quality of life.
  • Pituitary Cushing's: This is a hyperfunction of the pituitary gland in which too much ACTH is produced. The result is an overproduction of cortisol in the adrenal glands. Symptoms include a fat belly, a thin coat, increased thirst and hunger, reduced performance and increased susceptibility to infections. The disease can be treated with medication or surgery.
  • Diabetes insipidus: This is a hypofunction of the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland in which too little ADH is produced. The result is a disturbed water balance in the body, which leads to a strong thirst and increased urine excretion. Symptoms include a dry mouth, dry skin, weight loss and dehydration. The condition can be treated with medication or a special diet.

Treatment options for the pituitary gland

The treatment of pituitary gland disorders depends on the type and severity of the disorder. In some cases, medication can help to regulate or replace hormone production. In other cases, surgery may be necessary to remove a tumor or cyst that is affecting the pituitary gland. In any case, regular monitoring and adjustment of therapy is important to avoid possible side effects or complications.

If you suspect that your dog is suffering from a disease of the pituitary gland, you should take him to a vet as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve your dog's prognosis and quality of life.

The authors assume that a veterinarian should be consulted if an animal is ill and that medication should only be taken after consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Only an individual examination can lead to a diagnosis and treatment decision.

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