Case Study

Pancreatic carcinoma and septic inflammation, diagnosed on US-guided FNA, in a 14 year old MN cat

This 14-year-old MN DSH presented for weight loss with conserved appetite and no gastrointestinal symptoms. The physical exam revealed a mid abdominal mass on palpation and poor body condition. The CBC and blood chemistry values revealed moderate leukocytosis with a left shift and slight hypoalbuminemia.

This 14-year-old MN DSH presented for weight loss with conserved appetite and no gastrointestinal symptoms. The physical exam revealed a mid abdominal mass on palpation and poor body condition. The CBC and blood chemistry values revealed moderate leukocytosis with a left shift and slight hypoalbuminemia.

Sonographic Differential Diagnosis

A mass of pancreatic origin is likely, either carcinoma or similar neoplasia. Pancreatic necrosis and inflammation is also possible.

Image Interpretation

The region of the pancreatic base revealed a marked hypoechoic and mixed echogenic poorly defined mass with focal hyperechoic changes suggestive of mineralization and/or fibrosis.

DX

Well differentiated pancreatic carcinoma and secondary septic inflammation

Outcome

The patient was euthanized 2 weeks post diagnosis due to declining condition.

Clinical Differential Diagnosis

Pancreatitis, neoplasia, abdominal abscess, sepsis, PLE, PLN.

Sampling

22 and 25 gauge US-guided FNA revealed well differentiated pancreatic carcinoma and secondary septic inflammation. The 22-gauge samples contained moderate to heavy blood artifact.