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Would blood work alone show if a cat had mild pancreatitis? If so, what values are looked at? And what other tests should or could be done, if any?

Would blood work alone show if a cat had mild pancreatitis? If so, what values are looked at? And what other tests should or could be done, if any?

Updated On April 30th, 2020

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 2 years old | 9.5 lbs

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

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According to VCA animal hospital (which summarizes it very nicely!): Laboratory tests usually reveal an elevated white blood cell count; however, an elevated white blood cell count may also be caused by other conditions besides pancreatitis. If there is an elevation of pancreatic enzymes in the blood, the diagnosis is confirmed, but many cats with pancreatitis will have normal pancreatic enzyme levels. In recent years, a new pancreatic test has become available to diagnose pancreatitis even if pancreatic enzyme levels are normal. Radiographs may show changes associated with inflammation in the area of the pancreas with severe hemorrhagic pancreatitis. Ultrasound studies may be more helpful by showing inflammation in the pancreas or surrounding area. Unfortunately, many cats with pancreatitis will elude detection with any of these tests. Consequently, the diagnosis of pancreatitis may be tentative or presumptive in many cases, based solely on clinical signs and medical history. I hope this helps!

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