There is no test that can diagnose pancreatitis with 100% specificity and it is therefore easily misdiagnosed. Tests may include blood tests, imaging with radiographs, ultrasound examination and advanced imaging such as CTs or MRIs.
What can mimic pancreatitis in dogs?
“To give the most accurate diagnosis possible, your veterinarian will also test for diseases that mimic pancreatitis, such as kidney disease and liver disease.” Steiner recommends giving pets with pancreatitis a low fat diet. This includes restricting animals from treats.
Can pancreatitis be misdiagnosed?
Since there is no universally accepted criteria to diagnose chronic pancreatitis, Singh says that the condition is overdiagnosed. Changes in the pancreas' function and appearance are common as we age, says Singh. On scans, those changes can look abnormal, often leading to misdiagnosis.
What condition can mimic pancreatitis?
A couple of acute abdominal conditions that can mimic pancreatitis include: impacted gallstones (biliary colic) gastric perforation or duodenal ulcer.
Is pancreatitis hard to diagnose in dogs?
The diagnosis of acute pancreatitis can be difficult because clinical signs and results of diagnostic testing are often nonspecific.
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