Copper Storage Liver Disease In Dogs

Copper storage hepatopathy in dogs symptoms and types.

Copper storage liver disease in dogs.

In dogs with copper storage disease excess copper is not excreted accumulates within the liver cells and causes damage. Excessive copper build up in the liver can cause liver disease in some 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. 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.

This leads to progressive damage and scarring of the liver. Copper storage disease in dogs is a condition caused by an abnormal accumulation of chelated copper in the animal s liver. 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. 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.

Conversely secondary copper hepatopathies show symptoms of progressive signs of liver disease due. Copper storage disease is a disease characterized by excessive accumulation of copper in the livers of affected patients. Genetics is the main. This condition may be secondary to a primary disease or the result of genetic based abnormal copper metabolism.

Copper storage disease can occur as a primary disease or secondary to another disease such as diseases that cause build up of bile. 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.