Lobular dissecting hepatitis is a unique hepatic disorder associated with intrasinusoidal nonsuppurative inflammatory infiltrates, primarily recognized in juvenile to young adult dogs. It has been described in related Standard Poodles. Weight loss and ascites, with or without jaundice, are common clinical features. Laboratory abnormalities include hypoalbuminemia, hypocholesterolemia, low BUN, and increased TSBA concentrations in nonjaundiced dogs. Liver enzymes may be normal or only mildly increased. Multiple portosystemic shunts develop secondary to intrahepatic portal hypertension. The disease can progress to cirrhosis. Hepatic copper concentrations are not consistently increased. Supportive treatment is recommended for HE, ascites, and control of fibroplasia and inflammation as described. Colchicine (0.03 mg/kg, PO, sid to every other day) has been used to control fibrosis in some dogs. Alternatively, polyunsaturated phosphatidylcholine (25–50 mg/kg/day) can be used as an antifibrotic.

Last full review/revision March 2012 by Sharon A. Center, DVM, DACVIM