DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. 197 



Define ascites. 



Hydro-peritoneum is a collection or accumulation of serous 

 fluid in the abdominal or peritoneal cavity. 



It is rare in horses, but is occasionally seen in the dog. 



What are the indications for treatment ? 



Ascertain the cause and remove it. Act on the skin, kidneys, 

 and bowels. Absorbents, tonics, etc., are useful. 



Locally, blisters; tapping possibly. Good food and exercise 

 are important. 



6. DISEASES OF THE LIVER. 



The liver is the gateway of the system, and as it has many 

 functions to perform it is evident that functional disturbances at 

 least, are possibly more common than is ordinarily supposed. It is 

 one of the most important organs of the body, but on account of 

 its deep situation, veterinarians are often unable to accurately 

 diagnose many liver affections. 



ICTERUS. 

 Give the synonyms. 



Jaundice; the yellows. 



Define icterus. 



This is merely a symptom of some disease of the liver, and is 

 characterized by a yellow condition of the visible mucous membrane 

 due to the reabsorption of bile pigment into the blood. 



How may jaundice be divided ? 



Icterus may be divided into two large groups: (1) the hepat- 

 ogenous form (due to obstruction of the ducts) and (2) the hcematO' 

 genous form (the non-obstructive form). 



What are the causes of jaundice ? 



The hepatogenous form may be caused by foreign bodies within 

 the ducts (parasites, calculi), inflammation of the duodenum or 

 membrane of the duct, stricture of the duct, tumors causing 

 pressure. 



The hmmatogenous form may be caused by drugs, poisons, etc., 

 producing necrosis of the liver-cells or causing a greater destruction 

 of the red blood-cells. 



