TLDR The dog's skin condition improved after treatment for hypothyroidism.
A 7-year-old Labrador dog with chronic alopecia, weight gain, and dermatitis was diagnosed with hypothyroidism, indicated by decreased free thyroxine, high TSH, and low T4 levels. The dog was treated with levothyroxine, fluconazole, fexofenadine, and omega 3,6 fatty acid syrup. After 2 months, there was visible improvement in the skin lesions, suggesting successful management of dermatitis associated with hypothyroidism.
3 citations
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January 2013 Hypothyroidism in dogs is usually caused by immune system issues or gland atrophy, affects middle-aged purebreds most, and is treatable with medication.
14 citations
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February 2007 in “Irish Veterinary Journal” A dog with a pituitary tumor developed tertiary hypothyroidism, improved with treatment, but was later euthanized due to neurological issues.
6 citations
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January 2007 in “Actas dermo-sifiliográficas/Actas dermo-sifiliográficas” Gray hair regained color after thyroid hormone treatment.
January 2008 in “Springer eBooks” Thyroid disease can cause hair loss and treating thyroid problems might help with hair disorders.
115 citations
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August 2008 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism” Thyroid hormones help hair grow, reduce hair loss, and increase hair pigment.
35 citations
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October 2017 in “JAMA dermatology” Children with alopecia areata should only have thyroid screening if they have Down syndrome, a history of atopy, family history of thyroid disease, or signs of thyroid problems.
