Episode 203: Dr. Christopher Scudder on Hypersomatotropism-induced Diabetes

In this month’s JFMS Clinical Spotlight, Christopher Scudder, BVSc, MVetMed, PhD, DACVIM-SAIM, DECVIM-CA, MRCVS sits down with Nathalie Dowgray, Head of ISFM, and delves into the world of hypersomatotropism-induced diabetes in cats. An increasingly recognized comorbidity in feline diabetes they discuss the clinical signs, testing protocols, and treatment approaches for this condition.

We explore the rationale behind utilizing the term hypersomatotropism (HST) as a more accurate descriptor in diagnosing this condition. It becomes evident that encountering hypersomatotropism is not uncommon, as statistics suggest that if one sees more than five cats with diabetes, at least one is likely to have HST. Dr. Scudder helps listeners to understand how to know when HST is causing diabetes or if it is another pancreatic disease. Testing protocols are discussed as well as if diabetic treatment approaches should be altered in the presence of HST, considering the distinct nature of this condition. Additionally, the episode looks at the potential role of SLGT2 inhibitors in the treatment of HST-associated diabetes, exploring the prospects of this novel therapeutic approach.

Additional materials:

• JFMS Clinical Spotlight article: Feline Comorbidities: Hypersomatotropism-induced diabetes in cats