QUARTERLY BEAT / OCTOBER 2025
IMAGING AND BIOPSY: TOOLS FOR LIVER DIAGNOSIS Imaging techniques, including ultrasonography and radiographs, are essential for evaluating liver size, shape, and the presence of masses or biliary system abnormalities. However, these methods are not sufficient to differentiate specific types of parenchymal liver changes. Fine needle aspiration (FNA) is useful for identifying vacuolar hepatopathies or liver neoplasia but is less effective in detecting inflammatory changes. Liver biopsy remains the gold standard for diagnosing the type and extent of hepatic damage. Surgical and ultrasound-guided needle biopsies provide definitive histological information, allowing for targeted treatment. A study by Dr. David Twedt evaluating 150 liver biopsies in dogs revealed chronic hepatitis, neoplasia, and vascular anomalies as common causes of liver disease. However, the study also indicated that a needle biopsy should be interpreted with caution due to variable correlations with wedge biopsy results.
PROGNOSIS AND CLINICAL OUTCOME The prognosis for dogs with chronic hepatitis depends largely on the stage of the disease and the presence of secondary complications like cirrhosis or portal hypertension. Studies show that dogs with early-stage chronic hepatitis can live for several years with appropriate treatment, while those with advanced cirrhosis often have a much shorter survival time. Prognosis is particularly poor for dogs with significant hypoalbuminemia, hypoglycemia, and coagulopathies. CONCLUSION Liver diseases in veterinary medicine encompass a range of pathologies, each with distinct diagnostic and management strategies. Early diagnosis, aided by a combination of enzyme tests, bile acids, imaging, and biopsy, is critical for successful treatment and improved prognosis. With advances in diagnostic tools, such as protein C activity and imaging techniques, veterinarians can now more accurately assess liver function and tailor treatment to the specific needs of their patients. The key to managing liver disease lies in a comprehensive approach that incorporates clinical evaluation, laboratory testing, and appropriate imaging techniques, along with a focus on disease-specific therapies. With continued research and clinical experience, veterinarians can offer improved care and outcomes for dogs with hepatic diseases.
CANINE CHRONIC HEPATITIS Chronic hepatitis in dogs is a condition characterized by persistent inflammation of the hepatic parenchyma, which, if left untreated, can progress to cirrhosis and portal hypertension. Laboratory findings typically include elevated ALT and AST levels, with some dogs showing increased bilirubin and decreased albumin levels as the disease progresses. Serum bile acids are often elevated in chronic hepatitis, with post-prandial measurements offering additional diagnostic utility. The etiology of chronic hepatitis remains unclear in most cases, although copper-associated hepatopathy, particularly in Bedlington terriers, is well-documented. Copper accumulation in the liver is a significant concern, and diagnosis is made through liver biopsy and histochemical staining techniques. Other potential causes include drug-induced hepatitis, immune-mediated conditions, and infections like leptospirosis or Bartonella. MANAGEMENT OF CHRONIC HEPATITIS Treatment of chronic hepatitis aims to address the underlying cause (if identified) and to manage the inflammatory response to prevent further hepatic damage. Specific therapeutic interventions may include anti-inflammatory drugs like prednisone, azathioprine, or cyclosporine. In cases of copper-associated hepatitis, copper chelation with agents such as penicillamine or trientine is critical, followed by lifelong treatment with zinc to prevent copper re-accumulation. Supportive care, including the use of antioxidants such as Vitamin E, SAMe, and milk thistle, is commonly employed to protect hepatocytes from oxidative damage. Managing secondary complications like ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, and GI ulceration is also essential in cases of advanced liver disease.
13
VETGIRL BEAT EMAGAZINE | VETGIRLONTHERUN.COM
Made with FlippingBook - Online Brochure Maker