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Originally Posted by dottiesyrky  Thank you for your comments and for the link.
I agree that the snap and full cPL tests are not 100% conclusive, and other exams and tests have to be used to have a definitive diagnosis.
All I know is my own limited experience with my dog. When he got sick the vet did all the usual exams and tests and a snap cPL. This latter test showed that pancreatitis was likely and the full test showed a value of 399. The other indicators also supported a P diagnosis. After a couple of weeks of meds and prescription food, my dog seemed well again. The cPL test then came back at 93. So for my dog the cPL test seemed to be a good indication of pancreatitis, and I suppose I now have faith in it. I also feel that the snap test can be done quickly in the vet's office and can indicate the possibility of P without waiting for the full tests the next day or later. That is all I am saying, it can be a quick test and it worked for me. I did not feel the cost was that excessive as a first shot.
As for Annabel, I understood she had been diagnosed with P at first, but I do not know what tests resulted in that diagnosis. I again was only suggesting the test as it could it helpful, but of course the vet decides what tests to carry out to check on the progress of the disease.
I know that any info we give here can only be based on our own experience and is not to be taken as gospel. Most people go to vets but still ask here for the views that others here may have.
Hoping little Annabel feels better soon. |
Test numbers can fluctuate greatly and while the snap test is relatively inexpensive, the cPL is not. I believe it is around $150 but could be more, but my guess is that it would probably be meaningless to repeat it at this point. I am surprised your vet did that repeat test...I have not ever been advised to do that. I have had blood work repeated by them, but not cPL or snap cPL. But, each vet has his/her own thoughts on things. Mine usually like to treat the dog, not the numbers. That was emphasized greatly by one of the specialists I see and it really is what I have experienced with most vets. There is one vet at my vet's office that tends to rely way too much on lab studies...kind of avoid that one as much as I can. I always agree to have all necessary labs done, but this vet seems to be out fishing if that makes sense. I really was only sharing what I have been told based upon more experience with pancreatitis than I ever wanted to have. As you know, it can be downright frightening...and can kill. I hate that our beloved breed is so prone to it.