Epsilon Open Archive

Abstract

Pyometra, literally meaning “pus-filled uterus,” is a common illness in adult intact female dogs and cats and a less frequent diagnosis in other small animal species.1,2 The disease is characterized by an acute or chronic suppurative bacterial infection of the uterus post estrum with accumulation of inflammatory exudate in the uterine lumen and a variety of clinical and pathologic manifestations, locally and systemically.3 The disease develops during the luteal phase, and progesterone plays a key role for the establishment of infection with ascending opportunistic bacteria. The pathogen most often isolated from pyometra uteri is Escherichia coli. 4–6 A wide range of clinical signs are associated with the disease, which can be life-threatening in severe cases. It is important to seek immediate veterinary care when pyometra is suspected because a patient’s status may deteriorate rapidly and early intervention increases chances of survival. The diagnosis is generally straightforward but can be challenging when there is no vaginal discharge and obscure clinical signs. Surgical ovariohysterectomy (OHE) is the safest and most efficient treatment, but purely medical alternatives may be an option in some cases.