Quote:
Originally Posted by LCaster  Today I found out my 2.5 yr old yorkie likely has liver shunt. He's been vomiting for the last month and meds and antibiotics were not working. After presenting a list of Max's symptoms to the vet, the next step was a blood chem. Monday we will have a bile test done. I've decided to manage this condition medically vs surgery. He just has not been himself and it's been hard to see the change. One day a vibrant young dog, then a lethargic, ill dog that seemed changed overnight. I feel for you and wish you the best in whatever route you take. I miss the old Maxwell and hope thus condition does not change him forever. |
Your Max may not have a shunt...if you don't even know what the tests will show, it is hard to decide what the best treatment would be. Surgery is considered the best option for liver shunt.
From this link:
Medical Treatment of Portosystemic Shunts Over half of dogs treated with medical management alone are euthanized, usually within 10 months of diagnosis, because of uncontrollable neurologic signs and, in some cases, progressive hepatic fibrosis and subsequent portal hypertension. Surgery is therefore considered to be the treatment of choice for animals with congenital PSS.