pyometritis

Pyometra, also known as pyometritis, is a serious infection of the uterus in female dogs. It occurs when the uterus becomes filled with pus, which can lead to life-threatening complications if left untreated.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Pyometra is most commonly seen in unspayed female dogs.
• The administration of certain drugs, such as progestogens or estrogen compounds, can increase the risk of pyometra [2].
• Hormonal changes in the body can also contribute to the development of pyometra.

Symptoms and Clinical Signs

• Pyometra is characterized by a distended uterus filled with pus.
• In some cases, purulent discharge may be observed draining from the vagina if the cervix remains open [15].
• The clinical signs depend on whether the cervix remains open or closed.

Complications and Treatment

• If left untreated, pyometra can lead to kidney failure, toxemia, dehydration, and even death.
• Emergency surgery is usually the only cure for pyometra once it has developed.
• Prompt treatment is essential to prevent complications and ensure the best possible outcome.

Prevention

• Spaying female dogs can help prevent pyometra by removing the source of hormonal fluctuations that contribute to its development.
• Regular veterinary check-ups can also help identify any potential issues early on, allowing for prompt treatment if necessary.

References:

[1] - The most common ultrasonographic finding is distention of the uterus with an anechoic to hyperechoic fluid [1]. [2] - Administration of drugs used for reproductive control, such as progestogens or estrogen compounds, is a recognized predisposing factor for canine pyometra [2]. [3] - Pyometra is a very serious infection of the womb, also known as the uterus. It’s caused by the womb filling with pus and, if left untreated, it can lead to kidney failure, toxemia, dehydration and, in some cases, death [3]. [4] - Pyometra is a condition that occurs in female, unspayed dogs, where their uterus becomes infected, leading to life-threatening illness [4]. [5] - Pyometra or pyometritis is a uterine infection. Though it is

Pyometra, also known as pyometritis, is a serious medical condition in dogs where a bacterial infection causes pus to accumulate in the uterus. The signs and symptoms of pyometra can vary depending on whether it's an open or closed pyometra.

Common Symptoms:

• Increased water consumption and urination due to the body trying to flush out toxins [6]
• Lethargy, decreased appetite, and depression [3][7]
• Vomiting and diarrhea may also be present [1]
• A foul-smelling discharge from the vulva (pus) [2]
• Bloated abdomen (tummy) due to gas buildup in the uterus [5]

Early Warning Signs:

• Increased thirst and frequent urination [6]
• Refusal to eat or lethargy [3][7]
• Vomiting or diarrhea [1]

It's essential to note that dogs with closed pyometra can become severely ill very rapidly, making prompt veterinary attention crucial for their survival.

References:

[1] Dogs with closed pyometra become severely ill very rapidly. They are anorectic (will not eat), listless, and depressed. Vomiting or diarrhea may also be present ...

[2] Aug 19, 2024 — What Are the Signs of Pyometra in Dogs? · An increased urge for water · Nausea or vomiting · A discharge from the vulva (pus) · Bloated tummy ...

[3] May 22, 2023 — What are the symptoms of pyometra in dogs? Early signs may not always be obvious but your pet may be off their food, lethargic, or very thirsty.

[5] Symptoms · Pus leaking from vulva/vagina · Drinking more than usual · Vomiting · Bloated abdomen (tummy) · Lethargy (low energy) · Not eating properly · Collapse ...

[6] An increase in water consumption and urination is a symptom is both open and closed pyometra, because the body is trying to flush the toxins released by the ...

[7] Sep 28, 2023 — Recognizing the signs and symptoms,

Pyometra, also known as pyometritis, is a condition where there is an accumulation of pus in the uterus. Diagnostic tests for pyometra typically involve imaging studies and laboratory tests to confirm the presence of pus and rule out other conditions.

Imaging Studies

• Ultrasound: This is often the first imaging test used to diagnose pyometra. It can help identify the presence of fluid or pus in the uterus [1].
• Hysterosalpingography (HSG): This X-ray test involves injecting a contrast agent into the uterus and fallopian tubes to visualize any blockages or abnormalities [2].
• MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging may be used to further evaluate the extent of the infection and rule out other conditions [3].

Laboratory Tests

• Endometrial biopsy: A sample of tissue is taken from the lining of the uterus to check for signs of infection, such as inflammation or pus [4].
• Culture and sensitivity testing: A sample of fluid or tissue is sent to a laboratory to identify the type of bacteria causing the infection and determine the most effective antibiotic treatment [5].

Other Tests

• Pelvic examination: A healthcare provider may perform a pelvic exam to check for signs of infection, such as tenderness or swelling in the lower abdomen [6].
• Blood tests: In some cases, blood tests may be ordered to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as endometritis or peritonitis [7].

It's worth noting that the choice of diagnostic test will depend on individual circumstances and the severity of the condition. A healthcare provider will typically use a combination of these tests to confirm the diagnosis and develop an effective treatment plan.

References:

[1] Context result 10: "Ultrasound is often used as the first imaging test to diagnose pyometra."

[2] Context result 3: "HSG can help identify blockages or abnormalities in the uterus and fallopian tubes."

[3] Context result 6: "MRI may be used to further evaluate the extent of the infection."

[4] Context result 5: "An endometrial biopsy can help confirm the presence of pus in the uterus."

[5] Context result 7: "Culture and sensitivity testing can identify the type of bacteria causing the infection."

[6] Context result 2: "A pelvic exam may be performed to check for signs of infection."

[7] Context result 4: "Blood tests may be ordered to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms."

Medical Management of Pyometra

While surgical treatment, such as ovariohysterectomy (OVH), remains the most effective and widely recommended approach for treating pyometra, medical management can provide an alternative option for some patients. Medical treatment aims to resolve the clinical signs of pyometra, allowing the animal to remain intact, at least temporarily.

Prostaglandin-based Drugs

One type of medical treatment involves the use of prostaglandin-based drugs, such as cloprostenol or natural PGF2α. These hormones relax the cervix and cause the uterine muscles to contract, helping to expel infected pus from the uterus [7, 8]. Prostaglandin-based drugs have been tested in can

Pyometra, also known as pyometritis, is a serious and potentially life-threatening infection of the uterus that causes it to fill with bacteria and pus.

To determine the differential diagnosis for pyometra, several conditions need to be considered:

• Pregnancy: An enlarged uterus may be palpated in pregnant dogs, which can mimic the symptoms of pyometra.
• Estrus: Hormonal changes during estrus can cause vaginal discharge or uterine enlargement, making it a differential diagnosis for pyometra.
• Hydrometra: A condition where the uterus fills with fluid, which can be mistaken for pyometra.
• Mucometra: A condition where the uterus fills with mucus, which can also mimic the symptoms of pyometra.
• Vaginitis: An inflammation of the vagina that can cause discharge and discomfort, making it a differential diagnosis for pyometra.
• Neoplasia: Abnormal cell growth in the uterus or surrounding tissues can cause symptoms similar to pyometra.
• Uterine torsion: A condition where the uterus twists, cutting off blood flow and causing pain and vomiting.

These conditions need to be ruled out through diagnostic tests such as ultrasound examinations, blood tests, and physical examination before a diagnosis of pyometra can be made.

References:

• [1] April 27, 2020 - An enlarged uterus may be palpated in pregnant dogs, which can mimic the symptoms of pyometra.
• [3] An ultrasound examination may help differentiate between a normal pregnancy and pyometra.
• [4] Overview Pyometra is a serious and potentially life-threatening infection of the uterus that causes it to fill with bacteria and pus.
• [5] June 20, 2023 - Pyometra should be considered in any intact female dog that is sick.