Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency in felines: analysis of a clinical case and its implications

Abstract

Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) is a functional condition characterized by inadequate secretion of digestive enzymes by the acinar cells of the pancreas, leading to malabsorption and eventual chronic malnutrition syndrome. In felines, although it is one of the main diseases of the exocrine pancreas, it is often underdiagnosed and little reported. Several factors have been identified as possible triggers of this syndrome in felines, with chronic pancreatitis considered the most accepted final stage. Since the introduction and validation of the feline trypsin-like immunoreactivity (fTLI) test, the diagnosis of EPI in cats has increased. However, many cases remain undiagnosed due to the nonspecificity of clinical signs and clinical pathological changes presented by patients. Treatment of affected animals is usually successful through pancreatic enzyme supplementation in the diet. Commercial products are available, and the powder is considered more effective than administration of tablets or capsules. This paper reports a clinical case of EPI in a feline, discussing the clinical signs presented in this species, diagnosis, treatment, and the main differences that must be considered to conclude the diagnosis.