Basal and ACTH-stimulated plasma aldosterone concentrations are normal or increased in dogs with trichuriasis-associated pseudohypoadrenocorticism.

We measured plasma concentrations of cortisol and aldosterone before and after administration of adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) in dogs with trichuriasis. These dogs had physical examination, historical, and serum electrolyte findings suggestive of hypoadrenocorticism; trichuriasis-associated pseudohypoadrenocorticism has been reported previously. We found normal basal and ACTH-stimulated plasma cortisol concentrations. Basal and ACTH-stimulated plasma aldosterone concentrations were normal in 2 dogs and increased in 3 dogs, suggesting that the electrolyte abnormalities seen in this clinical syndrome are not due to aldosterone deficiency.