Liver, Hydropic Degeneration

a general histopathological finding in which cells absorb much water, indicating ischaemic or toxic injury or early autolysis
common and non-specific

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
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