DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. 199 



This is more common and is caused by an increased pressure 

 in the efferent vessels or sub-lobular branches of the hepatic veins. 

 It may be caused also by diseases of the valves of the heart; it may 

 be associated with pulmonary emphysema, tumors, and the like. 



What is the morbid anatomy ? 



The liver is enlarged, of a deep red color, and firm to the feel. 

 The hepatic vessels are engorged, especially the central vein of 

 each lobule. On section, a mottled appearance is shown, due to a 

 congestion of the hepatic vessels and an anaemia of the portal vessels. 



What are the symptoms ? 



There may be symptoms of gastro-intestinal catarrh, along 

 with a yellowish condition of the mucous membrane, the fasces are 

 clay colored and the urine contains bile pigment. Seldom do we 

 diagnose this condition. 



If diagnosed, what is the treatment ? 



Careful attention to the diet and the use of saline purgatives 

 may be beneficial. If the cause is known, remove it. In chronic 

 cases, moderate exercise. 



HEPATITIS. 



Name the forms. 



Parenchymatous hepatitis and interstitial hepatitis. 



ACUTE PARENCHYMATOUS HEPATITIS. 



What is the synonym ? 



Acute hepatitis; suppurative hepatitis. 



Define this form. 



This is an acute inflammation of the tissue proper (hepatic 

 cells) of the liver, often proceeding on to suppuration, which may 

 be either circumscribed or diffused. 



Although somewhat rare in the horse, it may occur in hot 

 climates and in old horses. 



What symptoms are shown? 



It commences with a chill, followed by fever; pain on pressure 

 over the region of the liver (not well marked in the horse), jaundice, 

 constipation, and possibly colicky pains. The symptoms are not 



