The pancreas is an organ found in the abdomen near the stomach, spleen and liver. The pancreas produces enzymes that digest protein, carbohydrates, and fat. The pancreas is also responsible for producing insulin. Pancreatitis occurs when these enzymes responsible for digesting food, start digesting the pancreas instead.
Pancreatitis is seen typically in middle aged or older dogs, and occasionally in cats. It is more common in terriers, non-sporting breeds, and in spayed and neutered dogs. Often pancreatitis follows the recent ingestion of a large fatty meal such as when a dog has gotten into the garbage, especially around the holidays.
Aside from excess fat in the bloodstream, pancreatitis can also be caused by drugs, toxins, trauma, shock, and other dietary factors. Pancreatitis can also be genetic.
Symptoms of pancreatitis include: anorexia, depression, abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea (sometimes bloody), fever and difficulty breathing.
Pancreatitis is diagnosed by doing blood work. A CBC, or complete blood count is done along with a chemistry profile showing organ function, and possible x-rays to rule out a foreign body or other causes of symptoms. The CBC on a dog with pancreatitis shows dehydration and a high white blood cell count. The serum or plasma, which is the liquid portion of blood, may be cloudy white or even yellow, instead of straw colored or clear.
The chemistry profile will show an increase in lipase and amylase, two enzymes produced by the pancreas. There may also be an increased ALT, and biliruben, which are found in liver cells. Renal azotemia or an increase in kidney enzymes: BUN and CREA, and even kidney failure may be seen as a side effect of pancreatitis.
If an animal has pancreatitis, then how is it treated?
Treatment is aggressive and centers around four goals: Reducing the pancreatic enzyme levels in the blood, rehydrating the patient, relieving pain, and managing other complications. Usually the dog is hospitalized and receives intravenous fluids through an iv catheter. Pain medications, GI protectants, antivomiting medications and possibly plasma are also given. The dog is not allowed to have anything by mouth and blood chemistry levels are carefully monitored.
The successful treatment of pancreatitis doesn't end at the hospital however. Dogs that have already had an episode of pancreatitis are at a greater risk for another episode. Patients are often put on special diets with restrictions to prevent or reduce the re-occurrence of pancreatitis, and blood levels are regularly checked. If left untreated or not properly managed, pancreatitis can be fatal.
