Reproductive Diseases

Question 1

What is another name for Pyometra?

Answer 1

Cystic Endometrial Hyperplasia

Question 2

What is the aetiology of a Pyometra?

Answer 2

Complex. Tends to be a combination of things.
Bacterial infection of the uterus often involves Ecoli
Most common in older unsprayed bitches that have had multiple seasons (uterine lining is thick)
Also can be due to a history of hormone injections for heat suppression - can suppress immune system increasing risk of pyometra

Question 3

What is the pathophysiology of Pyometra?

Answer 3

Cystic changes in the uterus and bacterial infection occurring during the oestrus phase
Open cervix allowing entry of bacteria into uterus
Large accumulation of pus due to immune response of phagocytes (open or closed)
If it is an open pyometra then pus can seep out and its more obvious.
If it is closed then the pus is trapped and can be very dangerous.
Build up of pus can cause bacterial toxins to enter the bloodstream causing septicaemia or toxaemia

Question 4

What are the clinical signs of pyometra?

Answer 4

Vomiting, diarrhoea
Anorexia Depression - due to toxaemia

PUPD -due to build up of toxins in the blood affecting kidney function

Vaginal Discharge - mucopurulent (if open)
Distended abdomen - if very large pyometra

Question 5

How is a pyometra diagnosed?

Answer 5

History - usually happens 6-8weeks after last season
Clinical signs - discharge, enlarged abdomen

Radiography - may indicate enlarged uterus
U/S -more definitive and sensitive to detecting thickening of walls and fluid. It can confirm the presence of a distended uterus, visualise fluid or pus and uterine lining.

Blood test

• haematology and blood smear
• high neutrophil count and body kicks out phagocytes to eat infection