Canine Dexamethasone Suppression Test (LOW DOSE)

The low-dose dexamethasone suppression test is used as an aid in the diagnosis of canine Cushing's disease (hyperadrencorticism). This test can also allow differentiation of pituitary-dependent from adrenal-dependent disease if hyperadrenocorticism is present.

Species:

Canine

Specimen:

Serum (minimum volume 2 ml)

Container:

Plain (red top) or Gel tube.

Collection Protocol:

  • Collect a resting serum sample (red top tube) at zero hours and label it “0 hour”
  • Allow tube to clot. If possible separate the serum from the red cells by centrifugation. If a plain tube has been used for the assay, centrifuge and transfer the serum from the collection tube into a plain (red top tube). Store at 4 degrees.
  • Inject dexamethasone sodium phosphate intravenously at a dose rate of 0.01 mg/kg of body weight.
  • Collect a serum sample at 3 hours post injection, label as “3hr”. Follow separation instructions as above.
  • Collect a serum sample at 8 hours post injection, label as “8hr”. Follow separation instructions as above.
  • Submit all samples to the laboratory ensuring the tubes are correctly labelled, and request serum cortisol testing.
  • NOTE:
    • Diabetic patients - Give half the regular morning dose of insulin and monitor blood glucose every 1 to 2 hours throughout the procedure.
    • Patients should be maintained in a stress-free environment for the duration of the test. Avoid testing in sick or stressed animals.