Cirrhosis of Liver
Synonym: Chronic interstitial hepatitis.
New fibrous growth develops in the liver along the course of the bile ducts and around and between liver lobules.
Etiology : Animal parasites such as Liver flukes and most common in sheep and cattle, occasionally other anima/ parasites such as Echi-nococcus polymorphous and other tape worm’ cysts, various vegetable poisons. In human be-inks, it has been attributed to ingestion of alcohol. Damaged or moldy foods are also suspected. Cirrhosis of liver is sometimes observed in dogs, cats and poultry, in which no poisonous plants are suspected as the causes. These cases have been attributed to some toxic products absorbed from the bowels.
Symptoms: Develop insidiously. The animal become weak and unthrifty, appetite is poor and bowels irregular. Mucous membranes are pallid and only slightly yellow. This may pass on tactual emaciation. In so called cirrhosis, the en-large liver may be made out on percussion in the right side. This may lead to Ascites. In some cases, there may be marked weakness. As to the course of the disease, it is progressive and may last for months.
Prognosis Unfavorable.
Treatment: Give nourishing diet and tonics. If Ascites develop, tap it.