Case Study

Pancreatic carcinoma in a 12 year old MN DSH cat

A 12-year-old neutered male DSH cat was presented for inappetence, polydipsia, and lethargy. The patient had a history of FLUTD and pancreatitis. Recent laboratory testing had shown leukocytosis and hyperlipasemia. Abdominal pain was present on abdominal palpation. Loss of abdominal detail was evident on survey abdominal radiographs.

DX

Pancreatic carcinoma with necrosis and chronic hemorrhage.

Sonographic Differential Diagnosis

Pancreatic mass, suspect carcinoma, lymphoma, or pancreatic necrosis and inflammation.

Image Interpretation

An ill-defined mixed hypoechoic mass is present in the pancreatic body infiltrating in an irregular pattern through the echogenic surrounding fat. Power Doppler shows areas that are void of vasculature, which is suggestive for necrosis.

Outcome

The owner elected for euthanasia.

Clinical Differential Diagnosis

Ascites – transudate/modified transudate/septic or non septic exudate. Pancreatic pathology – chronic pancreatitis, neoplasia. Bladder rupture.

Sampling

U/S guided fine needle aspirate of the pancreas. Pancreatic cytology was compatible with a carcinoma as well as evidence of necrosis and chronic hemorrhage.