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Peer-reviewed veterinary case report

Five-month-old dog with severe liver cirrhosis and failure

By Lucena, R et al.·Published in The Journal of small animal practice·2001·Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Spain·View original on PubMed

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Original publication title: Hepatic cirrhosis in a five-month-old dog.

Species:
dog

Plain-English summary

A five-month-old male Spanish mastiff was brought to the vet showing signs of severe liver failure, which can include symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, and jaundice. Despite attempts to treat him with fluids, antibiotics, and diuretics, his condition did not improve, and sadly, the owner chose to euthanize him. A necropsy revealed that he had severe cirrhosis of the liver, which is quite rare in young dogs. The cause of his liver issues could have been due to various factors, including hereditary problems or exposure to toxins.

People also search for: dog liver failure symptoms · Spanish mastiff health issues · puppy cirrhosis treatment

Abstract

The clinicopathological features of an unusual case of a five-month-old male Spanish mastiff, which was presented with clinical signs indicative of severe hepatic failure, are reported. Fluid replacement therapy, colloid plasma expanders, antibiotics and diuretic drugs were unsuccessful in improving the animal's general condition, and euthanasia was elected by the owner. On necropsy, ascites and severe cirrhosis, with extensive periacinar necrosis, was found. Cirrhosis is a rare lesion in young dogs. The most common causes are circulatory disturbances, hereditary metabolic disorders or poisoning, such as aflatoxicosis and anticonvulsant therapy. The possible involvement of canine adenovirus in this case is discussed.

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Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11380017/