Dr Fiona Adams (RCVS and European Veterinary Specialist in Small Animal Internal Medicine at North Down Specialist Referrals), discusses the current methods of diagnosis and treatment of acute pancreatitis.

We hear that laboratory tests are not sufficient to diagnose pancreatitis as many other conditions can give us false positives. Medical treatment is outlined including the new thoughts on omeprazole use and how we may need to start using this common medication with caution Dr Fiona Adams talks about nutrition when it comes to treating acute pancreatitis, disputing the old or traditional views to starve these cases.

Interestingly we also learn a little about whether low fat diets are of any value in different acute pancreatitis cases. Extrahepatic biliary obstruction associated with acute pancreatitis is considered and how we have moved away from surgical treatments for this condition.

Finally and throughout this webinar, the following are differentiated into myths or facts:

• Fact or False: A positive Spec Cpl/DDGR indicates a diagnosis of acute pancreatitis
• Fact or False: Beware the sphincter of Oddi when considering opioids
• Fact or False: NSAIDs are contraindicated in pancreatitis
• Fact or False: Antibiotics are appropriate in canine pancreatitis
• Fact or False: Antibiotics are indicated if pyrexia/neutrophilia is present
• Fact or False: Starvation/gut rest should be employed in the initial treatment of acute pancreatitis

Related CPD:

• Pancreatitis and Haemostasis – Paper Review (Veterinary Journal Club Podcast)
• Acute Liver Failure (Vet Education Podcast)

Canine Acute Pancreatitis: Fact vs Fiction from Linnaeus Veterinary Group on Vimeo.