Pyometra

Question 1

What is pyometra

Answer 1

A puss filled uterus

Question 2

What causes pyometra

Answer 2

Progesterone 4-8 weeks post estrus and
CEH (secondary infection)

Question 3

Pyometra can be open (draining) or closed. Why is closed pyometra critical

Answer 3

The puss will travel up the fallopian tubes, into the ovarian bursa, which leads directly into the peritoneal cavity causing infectious peritonitis

Question 4

Clinical signs of pyometra

Answer 4

1. Anorexia
2. PU/PD
3. Emesis
4. Diarrhea
5. Lethargy
6. Abdominal pain

Question 5

What additional clinical sign is there with an open pyometra

Answer 5

Vaginal discharge

Question 6

Pyometra PE findings (4)

Answer 6

1. Abdominal pain
2. Fever
3. Vaginal discharge
4. Dehydration

Question 7

Diagnosis of pyometra (3)

Answer 7

1. Clinical signs
2. Blood work
3. Imaging

Question 8

Blood work values diagnostic of pyometra

Answer 8

1. High WBC (Leukemoid)
2. Electrolyte inbalances
3. +/- azotemia (increased BUN + creatinine)
4. +/- Hyperglycemia

Question 9

What is the preferred method of therapy for Pyometra?

Answer 9

Surgical OVH (remove the uterus) including the cervix

Question 10

Medical therapy for Pyometra includes antibiotics, fluids & prostaglandins. Why is medical therapy not a good idea?

Answer 10

Recurrence - Pyometra will almost always come back