Diagnosing Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is a disease caused by inflammation of the pancreas. The pancreas is a small fleshy organ located between the stomach and small intestine. The pancreas has many functions related to digestion and the regulation of blood sugar levels.

Dogs with severe, sudden on-set pancreatitis are often very ill and show signs of vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and fever. Dogs with less severe forms of pancreatitis may show only mild signs of illness, and some dogs may have low-grade ongoing problems with recurring episodes of illness.

Diagnosis

Routine blood tests, including a Complete Blood Count and Biochemistry Profile typically reveal abnormalities that are suggestive of pancreatitis. The diagnosis of pancreatitis was based on finding high levels of two enzymes called serum amylase and serum lipase. High values of these enzymes can be found in dogs with pancreatitis. 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.

Pancreas-specific lipase is a form of lipase produced only in the pancreas. It is highly specific to the pancreas, and blood values increase only when there is pancreatic inflammation. By comparison, serum lipase can come from tissues other than the pancreas, and high blood values can occur with conditions other than pancreatitis.  These blood tests are run in-clnic with results identified within 30 minutes.

Treatment

The treatment for pancreatitis can vary. Most cases of simple pancreatitis are treated by allowing the pancreas to rest and recover. This is done by taking all food and water away from your pet. Pets are then normally admitted to hospital and are put onto an intravenous drip to prevent them from becoming dehydrated from the vomiting that can occur. Antibiotics are also administered. Most cases of simple pancreatitis take about 4-5 days to recover completely. Most pets are then put on a low fat diet for a period of time afterward.