Pyometra

Pyometra is an infection of the uterus which usually occurs 2 to 4 weeks after a heat (estrus) cycle. Because during estrus, the cervix is open to allow conception, some of the body's natural defenses are relaxed allowing infection to enter the uterus from the the vagina. The cervix then often closes down again allowing the the uterus to fill with infectious material or "pus". Pets may exhibit a variety of symptoms, the most common being lethargy, loss of appetite and increased water intake and urination. If the cervix is open, there may be a heavy purulent (pus) vaginal discharge.

The top pictorial illustrates a normal uterus and the method for routine surgical removal of the uterus and ovaries (ovariohysterectomy, spay). The lower pictorial illustrates the distended infected uterus in pyometra. The uterus may be hundreds of times normal size, sometimes exceeding that of a pregnancy. The wall of the uterus can also become very thin and susceptible to rupture. Left untreated, pyometra is a fatal condition, the surgery and concurrent treatment is extremely costly and because of this is one of the main reasons that spaying (ovariohysterectomy) is recommended at a young age.

"Spinner", a 9 year old intact (unspayed) female German Shorthair mix, was presented because of several days of inappetance and lethargy. She had been in heat about 3 weeks prior. Blood was drawn for a complete profile and revealed a very high (35K) white blood cell count. Pyometra was suspected and abdominal x-rays were taken.

In the abdominal radiograph above, numerous distended loops of uterus can be seen (arrows). On the basis of the bloodwork and radiographs, a diagnosis of pyometra was made and "Spinner" was scheduled for surgery.

In the top image, "Spinner" can be seen prepared for surgery. The hair has been shaved from the surgical site and the skin has been sterilized prior to draping. The center image shows the large, distended uterus before it was removed. The image above is after the surgery was completed, showing the large incision that was required.

In a similar case, "Cassie", a 10 year old Golden Retriever became very ill and was diagnosed with pyometra.

In the top image, "Cassie" is receiving intravenous fluids. In the center, the arrows outline the distended uterus. Below, during surgery, the uterus is displayed, demonstrating the fluid-filled uterine "horns".

This is yet another example of a dog with pyometra. The uterus is destended with infectious material. Unless too much time has passed and the dog has become too sick to withstand the surgery, most dogs will make a complete recovery following pyometra surgery.