Hepatic cirrhosis associated with long-term anticonvulsant drug therapy in dogs.

Advanced chronic hepatic disease was observed in 5 dogs that had received anticonvulsant drug therapy for 2 to 3 years. Clinical signs included anorexia, weakness, and restlessness, and 2 dogs also had ascites. There were remarkable increases in the serum activities of alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase. The total serum bile acid concentration was high in 3 of 4 dogs that were tested. Sulfobromophthalein excretion was delayed in all dogs. Histologic examination of liver specimens from 4 of the dogs demonstrated macronodular or micronodular cirrhosis.