PYOMETRA
General Information:
Pyometra is a severe bacterial infection with accumulation
of pus within the uterus. Though it often occurs in middle-aged
or older females that have never had puppies, younger dogs are
sometimes affected.
Pyometra results from hormonal influences that decrease
the normal resistance to infection. As a result, bacteria enter
the uterus when the cervix is open during the heat period, and
infection results. If the cervix closes after infection, large
volumes of pus can accumulate.
Signs of pyometra include:
The disease may develop very slowly over several weeks.
Treatment Information:
- Medical and surgical treatments are available,
but surgical treatment is more common. The advantages of surgery
are that the condition cannot recur, and there will no longer
be any bothersome heat periods. Medical treatment is most often
performed in young animals intended for breeding or when surgery
seems too risky. In some cases, medical treatment is used until
the animal is strong enough for surgery.
- Surgery consists of removal of both ovaries and
the uterus. Because the patient is ill and the uterus is infected,
the surgery is more complicated and carries a higher risk than
routine spaying in a healthy animal. Postoperative treatment includes
antibiotics and intravenous fluids. Blood tests are useful in
both diagnosing the condition and monitoring the response to treatment.
- Give all medication as directed.
- Surgical patients:
Inspect the incision at least once daily. Return
for suture removal in 10 days.
We hope that you will find this information helpful in your quest
for better pet care. If you have any questions or comments, please call your
veterinarian's office, or feel free to
e-mail us.
David E. Hammett, DVM
and the Staff of All Creatures Veterinary Clinic, PC
