This condition involves copper accumulation in the liver, where it causes inflammation, dysfunction, and ultimately, cirrhosis.
Usually, the small intestines absorb copper and then extract for storage in the liver. When too much copper accumulates in the liver, the result is copper hepatopathy. The causes of this condition can be genetic, or it can happen secondary to another condition that causes cholestasis (abnormally flowing bile).
The genetic form of copper hepatopathy is most common in Bedlington terriers. It is seen to a lesser degree in West Highland white terriers.
When a dog has copper hepatopathy, signs can vary depending on whether the condition causes sudden, severe signs or more chronic, progressive signs.
Sudden, severe signs of the copper hepatopathy include:
Dogs with chronic, progressive disease may show the following signs:
When a veterinarian sees a dog with copper hepatopathy, he or she will need to rule out other causes of liver dysfunction, including infections and pancreatitis. Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia may also cause similar signs, as can zinc intoxication and liver cancer.
Many blood tests, x-rays, and ultrasound may point toward copper hepatopathy and away from other causes of liver failure. A liver biopsy or fine needle aspirate can verify the presence of too much copper in the liver.
Some or all of the following treatments may be necessary:
Note: DNA tests can be done on Bedlington terriers to determine if they care the gene for copper hepatopathy. Breeders should have that test done and not breed carriers.
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