Canine Microvascular Dysplasia

Canine microvascular dysplasia is more prominent in small dogs.

Canine microvascular dysplasia is also known as hepatic microvascular dysplasia or hepatoportal microvascular dysplasia. The liver disease is prevalent in smaller dogs and practically nonexistent in large breeds.

Features

Blood in dogs with canine microvascular dysplasia does not circulate properly because of abnormalities in the portal vein, which connects the liver with the gastrointestinal tract. The portal vein branches into many smaller vessels, allowing blood to circulate throughout a dog, when it works properly.

Symptoms

Although some dogs show no symptoms, dogs that do may be smaller than normal or appear quieter or less intelligent. Dogs may also have problems with their gastrointestinal system, including vomiting and diarrhea or urinary tract problems.

Diagnosis

Canine microvascular disease is usually diagnosed through bile acid tests. Bile acids are measured after a dog doesn't eat overnight and then two hours after eating. Bile acids increase in dogs with the disease.

Treatment

The main way to treat the disease is to try to reduce the amount of protein in a dog's diet. Foods for dogs with liver disease should contain about 15 to 20 percent protein. Occasionally, antibiotics are prescribed.

Considerations

Yorkshire terriers and cairn terriers are most commonly affected by this disease. You should not breed dogs with this disease because it is hereditary.

References

• American College of Veterinary Surgeons: Hepatic Microvascular Dysplasia
• PetMD: Genetic Abnormality in the Liver in Dogs
• Vetinfo: Liver Disease in Dogs