CHRONIC HEPATITIS IN DOGS

Chronic hepatitis in dogs is not one disease but a diverse group of di seases, resulting in a common clinical and clinical pathologic picture . Viruses, leptospires, other infectious agents, drugs, hereditary fac tors, and autoimmunity have all been associated with hepatic disease l eading to chronic hepatitis in dogs. In most cases of canine hepatitis , the etiology is unknown. Biopsy and histopathology are needed to est ablish a diagnosis, possible etiology, and prognosis. Treatment is mos tly supportive. Ln some cases of chronic active hepatitis, corticoster oid therapy is appropriate. Sequential liver biopsies are the best way to monitor progress.