Challenges of diagnosing and treating cushing-syndrome in Guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) as compared to dogs: A literature review

Cushing syndrome develops when the body is exposed to excessive concentrations of cortisol. Hypercortisolism is well defined in dogs, with well established and extensively documented clinical signs, various diagnostic methods and treatment options available. As it is frequently the case in exotic pet medicine, only a small number of peer-reviewed case reports are available on guinea pig hypercortisolism. These typically rely on diagnostics and therapeutic techniques adapted from small animal medicine. Comparison of the findings of the guinea pig case studies to those on dogs reveals significant overlap in disease characteristics, though a number of species-specific distinctions are also evident. This literature review outlines and compares the similarities and differences of hypercortisolism in these two species.