Chronic active hepatitis with cirrhosis in the Doberman Pinscher

Summary

Chronic active hepatitis with cirrhosis and increased liver copper levels in 8 female (3 spayed) Doberman Pinschers is described. The response to immunosuppressive therapy in two dogs was poor. Laboratory results were not specific for the disease in the Doberman Pinscher and may occur in other liver diseases. The increased copper levels are most probably secondary to hepatocellular cholestasis. Although the pathogenesis is unknown, the disease in the Doberman Pinscher may be regarded as a separate entity.

Notes

Department of Veterinary Pathology and Small Animal Clinic, State University Utrecht, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Yalelaan 1, 3508 TD Utrecht, The Netherlands.