Evaluation of thyroid function in dogs suffering from recurrent flank alopecia

Thyroid function was assessed in euthyroid dogs (n = 20), dogs suffering fr om canine recurrent flank alopecia (CRFA, n = 18), and hypothyroid dogs (n = 21). Blood samples obtained from all dogs in each group were assayed for total thyroxine (TT4), thyrotropin (TSH), and thyroglobulin autoantibody (T gAA) serum concentrations. Total T4 and TSH serum concentrations were signi ficantly decreased and increased, respectively, in the hypothyroid group co mpared with the other 2 groups. No significant differences in TT4 and TSH s erum values were found between the euthyroid and CRFA groups. Thyroglobulin autoantibodies were detected in 10, 11.1, and 61.9% of euthyroid dogs, dog s with CRFA, and hypothyroid dogs, respectively. In conclusion, dogs suffer ing from CRFA have a normal thyroid function, and the determination of TT4 and TSH serum concentrations allows differentiation of these dogs from dogs with hypothyroidism, in most cases. Occasionally, the 2 diseases can be co ncomitant.