mid abdominal cyst in a cat


Chick is a 7 year old, no indoor only cat (last outdoor exposure years ago).  Has been hiding and crying, more lethargic than normal.  Owner was concerned because has been in litter box without producing anything, but hasn’t witnessed straining.  Does have a hx of cystitis previously, but has done well on a urinary diet.  Blood work – mild anemia (PCV 26%/TP 6.8, full CBC not performed), mild inc.

Chick is a 7 year old, no indoor only cat (last outdoor exposure years ago).  Has been hiding and crying, more lethargic than normal.  Owner was concerned because has been in litter box without producing anything, but hasn’t witnessed straining.  Does have a hx of cystitis previously, but has done well on a urinary diet.  Blood work – mild anemia (PCV 26%/TP 6.8, full CBC not performed), mild inc. in creat that resolved on fluids.  U/S mid abdominal cyst without communication with other organs within the mesentery.  Drained 15 mls – serosanguinous.  Cytology of mildly viscous fluid – erythrocytes and proteinacious background, no neoplastic or infectious cells.  UA showed mild to moderate amount of blood, but grossly normal color. (Bladder on ultrasound showed mildly thickened bladder and some suspended debris).  

Cyst is filling back up, so suspect will need explore and removal.  Thoughts?


7 responses to “mid abdominal cyst in a cat”

  1. Rules out hydronephrosis.

    Rules out hydronephrosis. Would require surgical exploration.

  2. Im guessing pancreatic

    Im guessing pancreatic cyst/abscess as pure omental cysts/abscesses are rare in cats in my experience and more frequent in dogs. I would drain it 16g catheter US guidance or explore as Remo says. I’m pretty convinced pancreatic origin here as I see what appears to be the pancreatic duct coming in on the right (red arrow on attached image) and opening up to the cyst wihtout spearation from a capsule.

    • Very cool find, Eric.  Thank

      Very cool find, Eric.  Thank you.  I will keep you posted on the case.  

    • Wanted to give you an

      Wanted to give you an update.  Great call on your part – it was a pancreatic tumor with the cyst extending into the mesenteric root.  The vet who did the exploratory euthanized the cat on the table.  

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