Localized Alopecia and Suppression of Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis in Dogs Following Treatment with Difluprednate 0.05% Ophthalmic Emulsion

December 2021 in “ BMC veterinary research ”

Katelin R. Quantz, Andy Anderson, Christine D. Harman, Erica L. Noland, Jacquelyn M Del Valle, Laurence M. Occelli, Jessica Burn, Simon M. Petersen‐Jones, Daniel K. Langlois, Christopher G. Pirie, Annette Petersen, András M. Komàromy

localized alopecia hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis difluprednate Durezol iatrogenic hyperadrenocorticism cortisol dermal absorption HPA axis steroid-induced Cushing's syndrome

Studysummary This study found that long-term use of difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion in dogs can lead to HPA axis suppression and potentially cause iatrogenic hyperadrenocorticism, with localized alopecia suspected due to dermal absorption. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.

The study examined the effects of long-term use of difluprednate 0.05% ophthalmic emulsion (Durezol®) on dogs, focusing on localized alopecia and suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. It included 13 Beagles and one Chihuahua, revealing that the Beagles developed alopecia around the face and ears, while the Chihuahua exhibited generalized hair loss and signs of iatrogenic hyperadrenocorticism. Diagnostic tests showed significant suppression of the HPA axis, with a negative correlation between difluprednate dose and cortisol levels. The findings suggest that difluprednate's high potency and dermal absorption contribute to these adverse effects, indicating the need for cautious use in veterinary treatments.

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