Pyometra is a severe bacterial infection involving the accumulation of pus in the uterus. This infection results from hormonal influences which decrease the normal resistance to infection. Bacteria may enter the uterus while the cervix is open during the heat period, thus allowing infection to occur. After infection, the cervix closes and large amounts of pus then accumulate.
Though pyometra can occur in younger dogs, it occurs most commonly in middle-aged to older female dogs who have never had puppies. Symptoms include depression, discharge of pus from the vagina, excessive thirst, loss of appetite, vomiting, and weight loss masked by an enlarged abdomen. Diagnosis of pyometra is often done with blood tests. Though other medical treatment can be given, treatment commonly involves surgery, after which the condition cannot occur. It is a somewhat complicated surgery which involves removal of both ovaries and the uterus. |
