CLINICAL SIGNS

Sex hormone related alopecia signs include hyperpigmentation, symmetrical alopecia on the rump, perineum caudal thighs, neck, tail and trunk. Age of onset can be as early as 1 to 2 years of age. There is a breed disposition in Pomerainians and Chow Chows. There is thinning of the coat due to the loss of secondary hair followed by total hair loss. Comedones are often present.

PROTOCOL

Perform a normal ACTH Stimulation test (LABfaX ManualTest Protocol 11) then measure both cortisol and OHP on both samples.

INTERPRETATION

Normal dogs show a basal OHP of less than 3.0 nmol/l and a post stimulation value of less than 4.0 nmol/l. Dogs with a sex hormone imbalance show significantly raised levels of OHP. Pre and Post Cortisol levels will be within the normal range.

Where the Cortisol response to ACTH is abnormal indicating Cushings Disease the OHP values will usually be raised.

COMMENTS

The SHAP can also be used on male dogs which are attractive to other dogs and bitches. Increased OHP suggests a sex hormone imbalance but frequently these dogs show an abnormal cortisol response suggestive of Cushings disease.
 

Test Code	Test Name and Description	Sample
SHAP	Sex Hormone Alopecia Profile  2 x OHP and 2 x Cortisol	2 x serum or heparin plasma