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Category Article Pets Animals Infectious Canine Hepatitis (ICH)
Category Article Pets Animals Infectious Canine Hepatitis (ICH) 
| Infectious Canine Hepatitis (ICH) |
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This disease is caused by the canine adenovirus 1, an organism found worldwide and known for its stability outside its host environment (it can survive for up to 2 weeks).
Species The virus is shed in all body excretions, and can be found in the urine of a recovered dog for up to 6 months. Direct contact with such secretions by an unsuspecting dog, usually under 1 year of age and unvaccinated, is the method of disease transmission. Clinical Sign Infectious Canine Hepatitis (ICH) does not, however, stop there. Other organ systems, including the eyes and kidneys, can be affected as well. Loss of appetite, depression, and fever, sometimes reaching 106 degrees Fahrenheit, are initial symptoms seen. Enlargement of the tonsils and other lymph nodes occurs as the virus multiplies in these regions. As the liver is attacked, abdominal pain and jaundice become evident. In addition, inflammation of the blood vessels within the body can lead to clotting problems and internal bleeding. One characteristic lesion of infectious canine hepatitis that can develop later as the disease progresses is called “blue eye.” In this condition, one or both eyes can take on a blue appearance due to fluid buildup and inflammation within the eye(s). Diagnosis Diagnosis of Infectious Canine Hepatitis (ICH) is based on the age of the animal involved, vaccination history, and laboratory data. Such data will reveal elevated liver enzyme levels, a lowered white blood cell count, and increased clotting time. Biopsy samples might reveal the actual presence of the virus within the tissue itself. DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS • Infectious hepatitis bacterial; fungal; other • Leptospirosis • Granulomatous hepatitis • Toxic hepatopathy • Fulminant infectious disease parvovirus; canine distemper Treatment Treatment Infectious Canine Hepatitis (ICH) aims are preventing secondary complications, such as bacterial infections, and giving intravenous fluids to combat dehydration. In severe cases, blood transfusions could be required. Even when vigorous therapy is instituted, prognosis for recovery remains very guarded in the majority of cases. Vaccination is the best way to prevent this Infectious Canine Hepatitis (ICH). Tags: Article Pets Animals Infectious Canine Hepatitis (ICH) canine adenovirus |
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