DISEASES OF THE LIVER 



CHRONIC INFLAMMATION— CIRRHOSIS 



These terms are employed to describe a condition we cannot with any 

 certainty determine during life. It is one of abiding inflammatory irrita- 

 tion of the connective tissue which unites the ducts and secreting lobules 

 of the gland wherein changes of structure occur of a gradually progressive 

 and permanent character. It is more frequently met with than the acute 

 form of inflammatory action already alluded to. At first the liver is 

 increased in volume, as the result of an abiding congestion of its vessels 

 and an excessive growth of connective tissue, which later on undergoes 

 contraction, resulting in wasting and destruction of the gland. As the 

 organ shrinks it becomes hard or cirrhotic, and in this condition its 

 function is greatly impaired. 



In the more extreme cases of the disease, ascites or dropsy of the belly 

 may result from the contracted state of the liver interrupting the flow of 

 blood from the abdominal organs. 



Causes. — It is mostly found in aged horses, after a long spell of 

 luxurious living and indolence combined. It is also seen in association 

 with the presence of parasites, especially the Echinococcus veterinorum. 

 But there are many cases which cannot be referred to either of these 

 causes, and for which no special reason can be assigned. 



Symptoms. — These are mainly concerned with the digestive function, 

 which for some time before the disease has been suspected will have ex- 

 hibited indications of increasing impairment. The insufficient and irregular 

 supply of bile furnished by the gland is accountable for the varying state 

 of the bowels, which at one time are constipated, at another unduly relaxed, 

 and now and again the seat of pain, as manifested by symptoms of colic. 

 The mucous membranes, as those of the eyes, nose, and mouth, may or may 

 not present yellow discoloration as a constant condition, but where this is 

 not the case observations made from time to time will sooner or later detect 

 more or less bile-staining, not only of the mucous membranes but also of 

 the urine. Evidence of a disordered digestion is further shown by clammi- 

 ness of the mouth, and sour breath, flatulency, and thirst. In addition, the 

 patient is dull, unthrifty in appearance, and soon exhausted under work. 

 Lameness of the right fore limb may also be present. In extreme cases 

 dropsy of the belly results from the impediment which the disease has put 

 to the circulation of the liver. 



Treatment in the majority of established cases is not very hopeful, 

 but as the extent of the disorganization can never be accurately measured 

 in the living animal, and comparative health may be enjoyed by horses in 



