Pyometra
Keywords: canine, uterus, pyometra, estrus
This uterus was removed from a seven year old mixed breed bitch in a state of lethargy, anorexia, dehydration and weakness. Her rectal temperature was 40.2 deg C. A vaginal discharge had been noticed by the owner. Estrous had ended approximately two weeks earlier.
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The author wishes to thank the 2014 senior surgery students who donated this tract for LORI
The syringe was filled with purulent content typical of this condition. E.Coli is the most common pathogen isolated from this pus but mixed infections are possible.
Pyometra is a condition found frequently in older bitches during the luteal phase of the cycle i.e. the within 60 to 65 days after ovulation. It is often characterized by systemic debility and in unusual cases, death. Neutrophilia with a left shift is common. In this bitch, the neutrophil count was 48.4 billion/ml (normal 5.4 - 14.3 billion/ml). BUN is frequently elevated but was normal in this case.
There was no record of PU/PD but that is a often a feature of canine pyometra. Polyuria results from insensitivity to antidiuretic hormone in the distal convoluted tubules and collecting ducts caused by E.coli endotoxins.
Ovariohysterectomy is performed after the animal has been stabilized for surgery. Antibiotic treatment is central to treatment as well. For details on non-surgical treatment, the reader may be wish to see this entry in LORI.
