## Overview Hepatic lipidosis is fatty infiltration of the liver that occurs with hyperlipemia, most often in ponies, miniature horses, and donkeys under negative energy balance. It causes depression, inappetence, weight loss, and elevated liver enzymes. The condition can progress to liver failure. ## Causes Negative energy balance (anorexia, pregnancy, lactation, stress, or concurrent disease) triggering massive fat mobilization. ## Diagnosis Clinical signs plus markedly elevated serum triglycerides and liver enzymes. Ultrasound may show a hyperechoic liver. ## Treatment Aggressive nutritional support to reverse negative energy balance, treatment of any primary disease, and supportive care. Insulin or heparin is sometimes used. ## Recovery and Prognosis Guarded, especially in ponies and miniatures. Early intervention improves survival. ## Prevention Avoid prolonged anorexia in at-risk equids. Maintain body condition carefully.
inappetence; weight loss; jaundice; depression; elevated liver enzymes and triglycerides
## Overview Hepatic lipidosis is fatty infiltration of the liver that occurs with hyperlipemia, most often in ponies, miniature horses, and donkeys under negative energy balance. It causes depression, inappetence, weight loss, and elevated liver enzymes. The condition can progress to liver failure. ## Causes Negative energy balance (anorexia, pregnancy, lactation, stress, or concurrent disease) triggering massive fat mobilization. ## Diagnosis Clinical signs plus markedly elevated serum triglycerides and liver enzymes. Ultrasound may show a hyperechoic liver. ## Treatment Aggressive nutritional support to reverse negative energy balance, treatment of any primary disease, and supportive care. Insulin or heparin is sometimes used. ## Recovery and Prognosis Guarded, especially in ponies and miniatures. Early intervention improves survival. ## Prevention Avoid prolonged anorexia in at-risk equids. Maintain body condition carefully.
inappetence; weight loss; jaundice; depression; elevated liver enzymes and triglycerides