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, 12:49, 7 June 2010
*a general histopathological finding in which cells absorb much water, indicating ischaemic or toxic injury or early autolysis
*common and non-specific
===causes===
1. anoxia
2. mild toxins
3. sustained bile stasis
4. excess glucocorticoids in the body
*glucose is normally stored within hepatocytes as glycogen
*excess glycogen within hepatocytes causes mild swelling and gives a focal hydropic appearance in areas of the [[Liver - Anatomy & Physiology|liver]]
*usually no change grossly - possible lightening of colour if pronounced and widespread
'''endogenous causes'''
*Hyperadrenocortism (Cushing's syndrome)
**functional pituitary or adrenocortical tumours
*''Diabetes mellitus'' [link to DM page]
'''exogenous causes'''
*iatrogenic
**most common cause in the dog
**due to prolonged use of steroid therapy eg skin disease
[[Category:Liver - Degenerative Pathology]]