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Delegates of Improve International were challenged to rethink the diagnosis and treatment of patients with Canine Cushing’s syndrome at the London Vet Show during two special lectures from one of the world’s most respected specialists in veterinary internal medicine. Professor Edward C Feldman is Emeritus Professor of Small Animal Internal Medicine at the School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, and gave two lectures on Canine Cushing’s syndrome to past and present delegates of veterinary CPD provider Improve International.
During his lecture on diagnosis he discussed the sensitivity and specificity of the low dose dexamethasone test, the urine cortisol:creatinine ratio and the ACTH Stimulation test, comparing the cost implications and ease of performance of each. He concluded that, while the ACTH Stimulation test remains the ‘gold standard’ for the diagnosis of naturally occurring hypoadrenocorticism (Addison’s disease), its lack of sensitivity makes it inappropriate as a screening test for dogs suspected as having naturally occurring hyperadrenocorticism (HPA).
During his lecture on the treatment of Cushing’s disease, he commented that, while the surgical removal of glucocorticoid secreting adrenocortical tumours causing HPA is the treatment of choice in dogs, as canine pituitary surgery is not frequently performed, dogs with pituitary dependent hyperadrenocorticism (which account for 85% of cases) are usually treated medically. He also discussed induction protocols and maintenance therapies using o.p’-DDD and Trilostane, strongly advising that the data sheets are read thoroughly prior to commencing treatment and that induction and maintenance doses be reviewed.
Attendee Graeme McKeown MRCVS, joint venture partner and veterinary surgeon at Companion Care in Tunbridge Wells, said: “The content presented by Professor Feldman was very thought-provoking and followed on from his 2011 and 2014 papers. It will, no doubt, be inspiring discussions amongst clinicians and industry alike concerning the diagnosis, management and treatment of canine hyperadrenocorticism.”
David Babington MRCVS, Managing Director of Improve International, added: “From my perspective, these were two very interesting and informative lectures from a master of the subject. Professor Feldman gave delegates some really useful and practical advice that will help them to manage their clinical cases more effectively.”
Professor Feldman has authored more than 160 peer-reviewed scientific publications, 110 scientific abstracts, and 75 book chapters. He is co-editor with Dr Ettinger of the Textbook of Veterinary Internal Medicine and co-author of Canine and Feline Endocrinology. He has lectured in more than 25 countries and received numerous teaching, research and service awards.
Improve International is one of the UK’s leading veterinary training companies with an 20-year track record in providing structured continuing professional development (CPD) for veterinary professionals. Part of Benchmark Holdings and based in Swindon, Improve provides high quality CPD in a range of formats for veterinary surgeons, veterinary nurses, receptionists and practice managers to help them to develop their skills and knowledge, using a combination of review lectures, case-based discussion and where, applicable, hands-on practical sessions.