Quote:
Originally Posted by Ellie May  Usually pancreatitis can be diagnosed with a Spec cPL.
If it is over 400, that is the diagnosis.
High lipase is a good indication of pancreatitis issues but it shouldn't be diagnosed by that alone.
A TLI can be done. A high level could indicate pancreatitis (although the Spec cPL is better for this). This test is sometimes done with vitamin B12 and folate level checks. Abnormalities in these could indicate intestinal disease. |
I have seen a normal cPL level with a very acute pancreatic dog. A good starting point is both a high amylase and a high lipase (both will probably be significantly high).
My personal experience with a high TLI was the indicator (combined with a low cobalamine, high folate, high Lymphocytes, Low Neutrophil Seg, High MCHC and borderline low Monocytes) was the diagnosis of beginning stages of Protein Losing Enteropathy for Sissy. The treatment for this was markedly different than for pancreatitis.
That being said, he first full blood panel will test the amylase and lipase along with the Lympocytes, MCHC, monocytes, Neutrophil Seg ~ all of which are immune system markers. Many vets will brush off these levels and tell you they aren't really that important, however with a dog exhibiting any signs of pancreatitis or other disease, they are important.
I would ask for a copy of all of the bloodwork so you can look at it yourself. If they haven't run the cPL panel, I would ask for that and also specifically what they test with this panel as each lab is different.
Then, armed with this information, I would consult with a nutritionist. Susan Davis is awesome and there are many of us here who have used her with phenominal results. ot tremendously expensive and quickly arranged also. Here is her contact information....
Pet Health Pet Nutritionist Holistic Pet
I would definitely start Truffles on a specific diet now. The longer you wait and the more issues you have, the more damage can be done. The diet isn't that drastic and you could put all your babies on it. Low fat is the primary key, but you also want healthy ingredients that are easily digestible. Starting her on a probiotic will also be recommended. Your other babies might also benefit from a probiotic.
I would also make sure they have tested for parasites in her stool, just in case. Hope this helps and that Truffles is home with you soon. Feel free to PM me for any other information or my phone #.
Hugs from Sissy, Angel & I