It took four months, but the doctors have finally diagnosed Molly. She has an atypical form of Cushing’s Disease. As I’ve mentioned in previous posts, Cushing’s is caused by a tumor in either the adrenal glands or the pituitary gland.
Molly will see the doctors again on Tuesday. They will attempt to locate the tumor. If it is in one of the adrenal glands, surgery will be scheduled. By removing the affected adrenal gland, the disease can be cured. If the tumor happens to be in the pituitary gland, surgery is not an option, but there are medications to treat the condition.
As you recall, Molly has had a hodgepodge of symptoms - liver enlargement, elevated liver enzymes, protein in the urine, chronic ear infections, skin problems, and a weight problem. The doctors feel that all these issues can be attributed to the Cushing’s. Hopefully, now that we have a definite diagnosis, we will be able to get all these problems under control.
As for Cruella, she is doing very well. The doctors are still trying to get her into the clinical trial for the new chemotherapy drug. No luck yet. If they are unable to get this particular drug, which is her best option at this point in time, she will be given another form of chemotherapy. Fortunately, the neoplasia in her spleen is mild, and it appears that there has been no spread to any other organs.
Please keep both dogs in your prayers! I will keep you posted on their progress.
April 28th, 2007 at 1:21 pm
I hope she improves quickly now that you have a diagnosis!
April 29th, 2007 at 1:21 pm
Biscuit ~ Thank you!
May 1st, 2007 at 2:01 pm
i’m so sorry to hear about your dogs…
yes, of course i’ve been to knoxville while visiting my brother. i try to make it there every year but sometimes it’s every 2 years. he’s got a nice place out in the country. it’s beautiful where you live!
June 29th, 2008 at 8:41 pm
[...] and is starting her third week of lysodren maintenance. You may or may not remember that Molly was diagnosed with an atypical form of the same disease last year. Her condition is being managed with melatonin and flaxseed [...]