Portosystemic hepatic encephalopathy(PSS)
Also known as: Portosystemic Shunt · Hepatische Enzephalopathie · Portosystemische Enzephalopathie · Liver Shunt · Congenital Portosystemic Shunt · …
Overview
What it is
This is a neurological condition caused by liver dysfunction, typically occurring when abnormal blood vessels bypass the liver. Because the liver cannot filter toxins from the bloodstream, these harmful substances build up and directly affect the brain. This lack of proper filtration leads to central nervous system dysfunction.
How it presents
Symptoms typically appear during puppyhood and often worsen shortly after eating. Owners may notice disorientation, head pressing against walls, unsteadiness, lethargy, or seizures.
Treatment
Depending on the cause, treatment can involve lifelong medical and dietary management or a one-time surgery to close the abnormal blood vessel. The total cost for diagnostics, specialized diets, or surgery typically ranges from €2,500 to €7,500.
How it's tested
Gallensäuren-Stimulationstest(SBA)
Primary testClinical examEin Bluttest, der die Konzentration der Gallensäuren vor und zwei Stunden nach einer Fütterung misst, um die Funktion der Leber und das Vorliegen eines portosystemischen Shunts zu überprüfen.
Issuing body: vet
Doppler-Sonographie des Abdomens(Doppler-US)
UltrasoundDie Doppler-Sonographie des Abdomens ermöglicht die direkte Darstellung des abnormalen Blutflusses durch den persistierenden Ductus venosus zur Diagnose eines portosystemischen Shunts.
Issuing body: vet
Result scheme: Cardiac-OFA
Affected breeds
14 of 14 breeds
DeerhoundRecommended standard
Australian Cattle DogAlso recommended
Biewer TerrierAlso recommended
Cairn TerrierAlso recommended
Irish WolfhoundAlso recommended
Labrador RetrieverAlso recommended
MalteseAlso recommended
Miniature SchnauzerAlso recommended
MorkieAlso recommended
Norwich TerrierAlso recommended
ShorkieAlso recommended
Yorkshire TerrierAlso recommended
DachshundOptional
Dandie Dinmont TerrierOptional
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment costs. Actual costs depend on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked questions
What is Portosystemic hepatic encephalopathy?
This is a neurological condition caused by liver dysfunction, typically occurring when abnormal blood vessels bypass the liver. Because the liver cannot filter toxins from the bloodstream, these harmful substances build up and directly affect the brain. This lack of proper filtration leads to central nervous system dysfunction.
How is Portosystemic hepatic encephalopathy tested?
Tests currently in our database: Gallensäuren-Stimulationstest, Doppler-Sonographie des Abdomens.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Deerhound, Australian Cattle Dog, Biewer Terrier, Cairn Terrier, Irish Wolfhound, Labrador Retriever, Maltese, Miniature Schnauzer.