Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis refers to a condition in which the pancreas becomes inflamed. In dogs, research has demonstrated that genetics, conditions such as obesity, diabetes and hypothyroidism, and diet factors including dietary indiscretion (getting in the garbage) and high dietary fat intake, may play a role in the development of pancreatitis. 

In a healthy dog, the pancreas will release enzymes in an inactivated form until they reach the interior of the GI tract. This means that the enzymes will not be able to start digesting anything while the pancreatic juice travels through the pancreas and reaches the small intestine. However, in a dog diagnosed with pancreatitis, the enzymes will become activated too early and begin digestion before the enzymes reach the digestive tract. This will cause the breakdown of the pancreatic tissue, and inflammation ensues which may cause activation of more enzymes. The severity of the pancreatitis will largely depend on how many enzymes have been inappropriately released and activated. This can have detrimental effects on the pancreas and other parts of the body.  

Clinical signs

Common clinical signs associated with pancreatitis may vary, but often include non-specific signs such as 

• lethargy, 

• inappetence, 

• vomiting, 

• diarrhea, 

• dehydration,

• abdominal pain. 

Diagnosis

Your veterinarian will gather a full history and complete a physical examination to aid in their diagnosis or exclusion of pancreatitis. Oftentimes, bloodwork will be run to gather further information, especially now that there is a quantitative test for the pancreatic lipase enzyme that is available in house. Values such as white blood cell counts, and pancreatic enzymes such as lipase and amylase, are assessed as indicators of pancreatitis. Other diagnostic procedures include an ultrasound to detect inflammation of the pancreas. However, it is important to remember that pancreatitis may present itself in different ways depending on the dog, and no one diagnostic test is completely indicative of pancreatitis. 

Different Causes/Risk Factors for developing pancreatitis 

Genetic Factors

Studies have shown that some breeds such as miniature schnauzers, miniature poodles, and terrier breeds may be at an increased risk though any breed and age of dog or cat may develop the disease. 

Comorbidities 

Diseases such as diabetes and hypothyroidism are also commonly associated with pancreatitis. Studies have found that obesity is also linked to a higher incidence of developing pancreatitis. It is important to maintain a healthy body condition and to visit your veterinarian regularly to ensure any new conditions are caught early and appropriate treatment is started to reduce the risk of your dog developing pancreatitis as a secondary medical condition.  

Diet 

Nutrition can play a crucial role in the prevention of pancreatitis. Dogs with a history of unusual food ingestion (i.e., ingestion of garbage, high-fat human foods, novel foods), have a higher incidence of developing pancreatitis. 

Prognosis 

The treatment and prognosis of pancreatitis depends on the severity and the timing of intervention. Remember that regardless of the above factors, some dogs may still develop pancreatitis for an unknown reason.  It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of pancreatitis, as it can become a potentially life-threatening disease.