Neonatal hepatitis
Also known as: Neonatale Hepatitis · Neonatal liver disease · Puppy hepatitis · Infectious neonatal hepatitis
Overview
What it is
Neonatal hepatitis, also known in veterinary medicine as lobular dissecting hepatitis, is a severe inflammatory disease of the liver that affects very young puppies. In this condition, inflammation disrupts the normal structure of the liver tissue, which severely impairs the organ's ability to filter toxins and perform essential metabolic functions.
How it presents
Symptoms typically appear within the first three weeks of life. Owners may notice extreme weakness, a loss of appetite, persistent crying, yellowing of the skin and gums (jaundice), and a rapid physical decline.
Treatment
Treatment requires immediate, intensive veterinary care such as fluid therapy and supportive warmth, though the prognosis is unfortunately very poor. Supportive care for an affected litter typically costs between 500 and 2500 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 Neonatal hepatitis?
Neonatal hepatitis, also known in veterinary medicine as lobular dissecting hepatitis, is a severe inflammatory disease of the liver that affects very young puppies. In this condition, inflammation disrupts the normal structure of the liver tissue, which severely impairs the organ's ability to filter toxins and perform essential metabolic functions.
How is Neonatal hepatitis 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.