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Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency Destruction of pancreatic cells usually occurs secondary to chronic pancreatitis. Another cause of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency may be pancreatic cancer. This disorder produces abnormal intestinal function and impaired absorption of sugars, proteins, and fatty acids. Affected cats typically have soft, pale, voluminous stools with weight loss. Greasy material may collect on the haircoat, especially in the region of the perineum. In cases with pancreatic damage diabetes mellitus may occur concurrently. The diagnosis is most accurately achieved by the feline trypsin-like immunoreactivity test. We can also measure the fecal proteolytic activity which will identify most affected cats. However, it will give false positive or equivocal results in some cats with small intestinal disease. Hyperthyroidism and inflammatory bowel disease cause clinical signs similar to EPI. These conditions are much more common, so they should be ruled out before testing for EPI. Treatment involves administering enzyme replacers with each meal. High protein, low fat diets are ideal. Antibiotics may be required to help restore normal bacterial flora in the intestine. The prognosis generally is good. |
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