Management of hepatopathy in horses

Abstract

The liver plays a crucial role in metabolism, detoxification and nutrient storage. The liver's response to insult is often non-specific, with inflammation and subsequent fibrosis being the key pathological consequences. The treatment of liver disease is guided by clinical signs and biopsy findings. The aims of therapy are to support the recovery of the liver, treat the clinical signs (if present) and treat the cause of liver disease (if known). Corticosteroids are recommended first-line anti-inflammatory agents, and treatment is continued until biochemical evidence of improvement of hepatopathy is observed. Hepatic support supplements are commonly used but evidence of efficacy is lacking. This review outlines current treatment methods for hepatic disease and liver failure.