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
Herzultraschall (Echokardiographie)(Herz-Echo)
Primary testCardiac examEchokardiographie zur Beurteilung von Herzklappen, -wänden, -funktion. Pflicht z.B. bei Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (MMVD).
Issuing body: vet
Result scheme: Cardiac-OFA
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
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
12 of 12 breeds
Mandatory testDeerhoundMandated by SDCA / CHIC
RecommendedAustralian Cattle Dog
RecommendedBiewer Terrier
RecommendedCairn Terrier
RecommendedIrish Wolfhound
RecommendedLabrador Retriever
RecommendedMaltese
RecommendedMiniature Schnauzer
RecommendedNorwich Terrier
RecommendedYorkshire Terrier
OptionalDachshund
OptionalDandie Dinmont Terrier
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
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: Herzultraschall (Echokardiographie), Gallensäuren-Stimulationstest.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Deerhound, Australian Cattle Dog, Biewer Terrier, Cairn Terrier, Irish Wolfhound, Labrador Retriever, Maltese, Miniature Schnauzer.