Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI)

What is Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI)?
EPI is the result of the loss of the cells in the pancreas that produce specific digestive enzymes leading to the inability of the body to absorb necessary nutrients. As a result of the difficulty absorbing proteins and fat, diarrhea and weight loss are seen.

How does my dog get EPI?
In German Shepherds, EPI is considered to be hereditary, in other breeds, the cause is frequently unknown. It is commonly seen in cats that have had chronic pancreatitis.

How do I know if my dog has EPI?
If you have a young German Shepherd or other breed with a history of chronic diarrhea, weight loss, and a ravenous appetite, EPI may be the cause. The condition is slowly progressive so it may take a period of time before it is severe enough to take note. The diarrhea may be continuous or intermittent but is usually watery. There is frequent passing of gas with noticeably loud stomach sounds. As the condition progresses, the coat becomes dull, there is loss of muscle mass, and generally ‘unthrifty’ appearance dominates. Diagnosis by a veterinarian has become easier with new specific laboratory testing but will still require: a physical examination, basic blood and urine tests, and radiographs to start. Your veterinarian may recommend some specific blood tests designed to identify EPI.

What can I do about EPI?
Treatment for EPI is a combination of dietary modification and supplementation of the missing enzymes. Once the enzymes are supplemented recovery is relatively rapid, HOWEVER, the condition requires lifelong treatment. In most cases of EPI, there is concurrent Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth thus the use of antibiotics may be needed.

Is there anything I can do to prevent my pet from getting EPI?
Prevention will start with breed selection.

Are there certain breeds that get EPI more often?
German Shepherd. Also noted in collies and English setters