Chronic hepatitis(CH)
Also known as: Chronische Hepatitis · Chronic Active Hepatitis · CAH · Kupferspeicherkrankheit der Leber · Copper-associated hepatopathy · …
Overview
What it is
Chronic hepatitis is a long-term, progressive inflammation of the liver, which is the organ responsible for filtering toxins and processing nutrients. This ongoing inflammation damages the liver tissue over time and can eventually lead to liver failure. It is often caused by genetic predispositions that lead to abnormal copper buildup in the liver, or by abnormal immune system responses.
How it presents
Symptoms typically become noticeable in middle-aged dogs, starting with non-specific signs like a poor appetite, vomiting, and weight loss. As the disease progresses, owners may observe yellowing of the gums and skin (jaundice), a fluid-swollen abdomen, or lethargy.
Treatment
This is a manageable but incurable condition requiring lifelong therapy, including specialized diets, medications, and regular veterinary check-ups. Lifetime management costs typically range from €2,000 to €8,000.
How it's tested
Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Labogen-Panel)
Primary testDNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Labogen / Laboklin) — bündelt alle relevanten Erbkrankheiten der Rasse in einem Test.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Leberbiopsie und Histopathologie(Leberbiopsie)
Primary testClinical examDie histopathologische Untersuchung einer Leberbiopsie ist der Goldstandard zur Diagnose von chronischer Hepatitis und zur Beurteilung von Entzündungen, Fibrose und Kupferspeicherung.
Issuing body: vet
Kupfertoxikose (COMMD1) DNA-Test(CT)
Primary testDNA testEin molekularbiologischer DNA-Test zum Nachweis der Mutation im COMMD1-Gen, die zu einer abnormalen Kupferakkumulation in der Leber führt.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Feragen-Panel)
DNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Feragen, Österreich) — gleiches Konzept wie Labogen.
Issuing body: Feragen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Embark Breed + Health Panel(Embark)
DNA testUS-Anbieter; 250+ genetische Erkrankungen + Abstammung. Anerkennung in DE/AT variiert je nach VDH-Verein.
Issuing body: Embark
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
MyDogDNA Panel(MyDogDNA)
DNA testGenoscoper-basiertes Panel (Mars Petcare). 200+ Erkrankungen + Rassenkomposition.
Issuing body: MyDogDNA
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment costs. Actual costs depend on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked questions
What is Chronic hepatitis?
Chronic hepatitis is a long-term, progressive inflammation of the liver, which is the organ responsible for filtering toxins and processing nutrients. This ongoing inflammation damages the liver tissue over time and can eventually lead to liver failure. It is often caused by genetic predispositions that lead to abnormal copper buildup in the liver, or by abnormal immune system responses.
How is Chronic hepatitis tested?
Tests currently in our database: Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Leberbiopsie und Histopathologie, Kupfertoxikose (COMMD1) DNA-Test, Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Embark Breed + Health Panel, MyDogDNA Panel.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Bedlington Terrier, Dobermann, Skye Terrier, West Highland White Terrier, Kangal Shepherd Dog.