Polyendocrine syndrome(APS)
Also known as: Autoimmune Polyendocrine Syndrome · Polyglandular Autoimmune Syndrome · Polyglanduläres Autoimmunsyndrom · Canine Polyglandular Syndrome
Overview
What it is
Polyendocrine syndrome is a severe autoimmune disorder where the dog's immune system mistakenly targets and destroys multiple hormone-producing (endocrine) glands, either at the same time or one after another. This can damage critical organs like the adrenal glands, thyroid, and pancreas, leading to a failure in hormone production. Because the disease is complex and multifactorial, there are currently no direct genetic tests available.
How it presents
Symptoms typically appear in young to middle-aged dogs and vary depending on which glands are damaged. Owners may notice signs such as extreme weakness, vomiting, increased thirst, weight loss, or sudden collapse.
Treatment
This condition is incurable and requires lifelong, complex hormone replacement therapy alongside regular veterinary monitoring. Managing this disease is highly cost-intensive, with lifetime treatment costs typically ranging from 5,000 to 15,000 EUR.
How it's tested
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Polyendocrine syndrome?
Polyendocrine syndrome is a severe autoimmune disorder where the dog's immune system mistakenly targets and destroys multiple hormone-producing (endocrine) glands, either at the same time or one after another. This can damage critical organs like the adrenal glands, thyroid, and pancreas, leading to a failure in hormone production. Because the disease is complex and multifactorial, there are currently no direct genetic tests available.
How is Polyendocrine syndrome tested?
Various clinical and genetic tests are used depending on the breed and presentation.
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.