Published in Scientific Works. Series C. Veterinary Medicine, Vol. LXXI, Issue 2
Written by Cristina FERNOAGĂ, Alexandra Mihaela CRISTIAN, Mario CODREANU
Hyperthyroidism represents a total increase in thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) - due to benign (adenomatous) or malignant (hyperplastic) changes. The study included 14 adult and geriatric cats, presented to the practice with suspected hyperthyroidism. Data collected included approximate age and medical history, clinical signs (weakness, tachycardia, neurologic signs, thyroid size on palpation), thyroid palpation (thyroid lobe size assessment) and eventually TT4 (total T4) values measured by standard laboratory methods. Group A included 9 cats diagnosed with hyperthyroidism with clinical signs, age mostly over 10 years (geriatric category). The clinical signs registered were progressive weakness (n=9), tachycardia (n=9), neurological signs (agitation, tremor, excessive vocalization (n=7), or postural modifications n=3). TT4 median values 6.7 µg/dL. Group B included 3 cats with enlarged thyroid, age adult (7 and 8 years). Clinical signs: mild or absent, only thyroid palpation shows moderate enlargement. The specific determination of TT4 registered a within normal limits (but in the upper half on retest in some individuals). Possible interpretation: incipient or "occult" hyperthyroidism and requires further monitoring (TT4 retest, fT4 and/or T3 suppression test, TSH). Group C was represented by 1 cat with increased TT4, the age 9 years old, and the absence of clinical signs with good general condition, no weight loss or behavioural changes and TT4 above reference limits with 5.5 µg/dL value. This paper highlights the diversity of clinical and laboratory presentations of feline hyperthyroidism, emphasizing the need for continuous monitoring and further investigations in atypical cases.
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