Copper Storage Liver Disease In Dogs

Common breeds of dog that are affected include bedlington terriers labrador retrievers and dalmatians but it is seen in dogs of other breeds as well.

Copper storage liver disease in dogs.

Copper storage hepatopathy in dogs copper storage hepatopathy is a condition caused by an abnormal accumulation of copper in the animal s liver which leads to progressive damage and scarring of the liver cirrhosis. It is important to note that dogs can be affected by copper storage hepatopathy at any age. Symptoms of liver disease copper storage in dogs vomiting decreased appetite weight loss excessive thirst frequent urination bloody diarrhea jaundice anemia ascites fluid in the abdomen gastrointestinal bleeding ulcers hepatic encephalopathy disorientation circling aggression seizures coma. Copper storage hepatopathy in dogs symptoms and types.

In dogs with copper storage disease excess copper is not excreted accumulates within the liver cells and causes damage. A gene mutation causes copper storage disease in bedlington terriers. Excessive copper build up in the liver can cause liver disease in some dogs. Copper storage disease can occur as a primary disease or secondary to another disease such as diseases that cause build up of bile.

Copper storage disease is a disease characterized by excessive accumulation of copper in the livers of affected patients. This leads to progressive damage and scarring of the liver. While bedlingtons have a known genetic mutation related to copper excretion in other breeds we do not know why some dogs accumulate too much copper on diets that other dogs do fine on. This condition may be secondary to a primary disease or the result of genetic based abnormal copper metabolism.

Conversely secondary copper hepatopathies show symptoms of progressive signs of liver disease due. Excessive and prolonged exposure over time leads to cirrhosis and possible death. Clinical signs are variable as some pets may not have any clinical signs while others may have severe neurological deficits secondary to liver dysfunction.