Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas and it can be an acute or chronic condition and have a varying range of clinical signs. The cause of pancreatitis in dogs and cats is usually unknown but some risk factors associated with pancreatitis have been identified and will be discussed later.
The major digestive enzymes exist in pancreatic acinar cells in inactive forms called zymogens. Inactive enzymes get packaged into zymogens which helps prevent premature activation before they are released into the duodenum (part of the small intestine) where they become activated. Once activated they begin breaking down nutrients as they were meant to do. If the inhibiting substances are blocked or if the enzymes are activated while they are still in the pancreas, the pancreas inappropriately begins to digest itself and signs of pancreatitis occur. The result of this disruption can lead to multiple pathophysiological interactions and the end results of pancreatitis can be severe, including damage to the kidneys, liver, lungs, heart, and abdominal lymphatics.
Acute pancreatitis is characterized by the infiltration of neutrophils, pancreatic necrosis, oedema, and/or haemorrhage. Acinar tissue and duct tissues remain intact.
Chronic Pancreatitis is long-standing inflammation of pancreatic tissue associated with irreversible damage, most importantly fibrosis. Chronic pancreatitis can eventually lead to diabetes mellitus and/or exocrine pancreatic insufficiency.
CLINICAL SIGNS can vary in severity and overlap with gastrointestinal signs, inflammatory bowel disease, peritonitis and acute renal failure. Signs of lethargy, anorexia, vomiting, fever and abdominal pain can be present. On physical exam there may also be evidence of dehydration, increased heart rate, increased respiratory rate and/or palpation of an abdominal mass.
Pancreatitis can be suggestively diagnosed several ways using complete blood count, biochemistry, radiographs, cPLI testing and abdomenocentesis. However, ultrasound is one of the best tools in diagnosing pancreatitis in dogs. In the coming days we will provide more information regarding risk factors associated with pancreatitis, management of the disease long term as well treatment and therapies that are used in patients diagnosed with the disease.
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