Case Study

Pancreatic carcinoma in a 16 year old MN DSH cat

This 16-year-old FS DSH was presented for chronic vomiting, lethargy, anorexia, PU/PD, and weight loss. The clinical exam revealed moderate dehydration and mild hyperthermia. The CBC and blood chemistry analysis was normal except for a minor SAP elevation.

This 16-year-old FS DSH was presented for chronic vomiting, lethargy, anorexia, PU/PD, and weight loss. The clinical exam revealed moderate dehydration and mild hyperthermia. The CBC and blood chemistry analysis was normal except for a minor SAP elevation.

Sonographic Differential Diagnosis

Pancreatomegaly with peripancreatic inflammation. Because of the rounded serosal margination and the aforementioned heterogeneous parenchymal appearance, neoplasia must be considered. However, severe pancreatitis with regional fibrosis cannot be ruled out.

Image Interpretation

A solitary segment of the pancreas is markedly enlarged with rounded serosal margins. The echogenic septation noted on this image is likely the result of overlying reactive omentum. The heteroechoic echotexture of the segment within the near field is more pronounced than what is normally seen with pancreatitis and hence, an infiltrative process must be considered. The surrounding omentum and mesentery are moderately echogenic.