Clinical Pathology of Liver Disease in Horses

Liver disease in horses is primarily evaluated using the routine serum biochemical profile with a few additional specialty tests of liver function that are performed when indicated. Serum enzyme activities are evaluated to indicate hepatocellular damage and cholestasis. Liver function is evaluated using synthetic markers like BUN, albumin, bilirubin, and clotting times, while clearance function tests such as serum bile acids and ammonia are performed separately. Most equine liver disease is characterized by some degree of hepatocellular damage and cholestasis, while decreased liver function is less common because of the large reserve capacity of the organ.