Cholesteryl ester storage disease(CESD)
Also known as: Cholesterinesterspeicherkrankheit · Lysosomal acid lipase deficiency · LAL deficiency · LAL-D · Cholesteryl ester storage disease of dogs
Overview
What it is
This is a rare, inherited metabolic disorder where the dog's body lacks a specific enzyme needed to break down certain fats. Without this enzyme, fats and cholesteryl esters build up abnormally inside the cells of various organs, particularly the liver. This accumulation leads to progressive tissue damage and impairs normal organ function.
How it presents
Symptoms typically appear early in life, often during puppyhood. Owners may notice signs such as frequent vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and general weakness as the liver becomes enlarged and begins to fail.
Treatment
There is no cure for this progressive disease, so therapy is lifelong and focused on supportive care and dietary management. Managing the symptoms and maintaining quality of life typically costs between 1,500 and 5,000 EUR.
How it's tested
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Cholesteryl ester storage disease?
This is a rare, inherited metabolic disorder where the dog's body lacks a specific enzyme needed to break down certain fats. Without this enzyme, fats and cholesteryl esters build up abnormally inside the cells of various organs, particularly the liver. This accumulation leads to progressive tissue damage and impairs normal organ function.
How is Cholesteryl ester storage disease tested?
Various clinical and genetic tests are used depending on the breed and presentation.
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.