Pyometra (Uterine Infection)

Pyometra (Uterine Infection)

Pyometra, otherwise known as uterine infection is a potentially fatal illness that warrants some considerable amount of attention. Affecting female dogs predominantly, pyometra can also affect ferrets, rabbits and cats nonetheless. In this condition the uterus becomes infected that’s why if you literally translate the term pyometra, it would mean that the uterus has pus. The dangerous characteristic of this disease is that its onset and progression are rather quick. When it’s already there, pyometra just becomes worse very quickly most especially if left unmanaged.

The two types of pyometra are the open and closed type. In an open pyometra, the cervix remains or has become opened. Pus then flows like any other vaginal discharge that originates from the uterus (infected). In the case of a closed pyometra, the cervix is obviously kept close. In this regard, there is a build up of pus from inside the uterus as it is not able to drain outside due to the closed cervix. This build up of pus can cause abdominal distention and also an unnecessary increase in the pressure inside the uterus.

Although rare, there is another kind of pyometra referred to as the stump pyometra. In neutered bitches, the uterine stump after spaying (a sterilizing or neutering practice) becomes infected due to some ovarian tissue leftovers. Nevertheless, this problem can be resolved granting that the proper course of antibiotic therapy has been administered and completed.

What causes pyometra?

Because of some hormonal changes, the uterine lining is altered in female dogs most especially when the progesterone level is kept at a constant high (after the oestrus stage). In this connection, the uterine wall becomes thicker. Normally, this phenomenon happens when an animal is pregnant wherein the thick uterine lining functions to support the growing foetus. However, if this lining keeps becoming thick without being pregnant then cysts are bound to grow – cystic endometrial hyperplasia.

However, it does not end there. Cysts continue to secrete fluids that become the ideal grounds for bacteria to thrive. These bacteria enter the uterus during oestrus as the cervix dilates (opens up). To add to the growing problem, bacteria prefer a rich environment for them to multiply and so the thickened uterus serves just that. With all of these developments, the muscles of the uterus will no longer contract effectively and will not be able to expel the infection.

Moreover, pyometra can also develop from the constant use of artificial hormones in the form of progestogens and hormone altering contraceptives like oestrogens. The joint use of these drugs to counter unplanned mating can spell out danger as the likelihood of pyometra development also increases.

How will you know that your pet has pyometra?

The signs of pyometra are dependent on the specific type of the disease. If the pyometra is an open class then vaginal discharges are the most evident and foremost signs noted in canines before she literally becomes ill. In the other type (closed), toxins are released by the bacteria which are then circulated throughout the bloodstream. Because of such, the dog becomes ill a lot quicker compared to the previous type. If left untreated, a closed pyometra often leads to septicaemia and shock. Other signs of the disease include:
1. Anorexia and vomiting
2. Lethargic and depressed
3. Polyuria or an increase in urinary frequency
4. Polydipsia (abnormal increase in thirst)
5. Distended abdomen

How is pyometra diagnosed?

Because of the nature of the disease, immediate veterinary assistance must be sought. In this regard, the vet will most likely perform or order the following examinations to be conducted as soon as possible:
1. Ultrasound
2. Radiologic test (X-ray)
3. Blood tests – an increase in the overall white blood cell count is to be expected as there is a systemic infection going on. Because of the release of bacterial toxins, this can also reveal certain abnormalities in the kidney.

How is pyometra treated?

Ovariohysterectomy or the complete removal of the dog’s ovaries and uterus is the treatment of choice for pyometra. In layman’s term, the procedure is called spaying. Canines, which fell victim of this disease, need a supportive care that is joined with antibiotic treatment and IV fluids because they are really ill.

In the case of a closed pyometra, the danger sign is an overly distended uterus or lower abdomen. This shows that the uterus is about to rupture due to the build up of pressure. When this happens, the pus will just spill out within the abdomen which then spreads the infection far too quickly. The end result is peritonitis which is a graver condition that requires an advanced set of interventions.

However, if the extent of infection is rather small the prognosis is good since the removal of the uterus and ovaries generally improves the dog’s condition, as well as, lessens the likelihood of recurrence.

In addition, it is still possible to manage pyometra even without subjecting your pet into a spay procedure. But obviously, this approach is not at all recommended. If you have plans of breeding your animal in the long run then you can do away with spaying.

Using another approach, hormonal therapy with prostaglandins can medically alleviate the condition. The use of the said drug is aimed at:
1. Dilating the cervix to facilitate pus drainage
2. Decreasing the level of progesterone
3. Contracting the uterus for pus expulsion

The downsides in using prostaglandins are the following:
1. It is not 100% guaranteed that it will become effective.
2. The treatment itself is useless if the animal is already too ill.
3. Can lead to a rebound uterine rupture if ever the uterus becomes contracted amidst a still unopened cervix.
4. There is still a chance of recurrent infections.
5. Doesn’t do well in breeding

How can you prevent pyometra?

As mentioned, the spay approach is the single most effective way to prevent the development of pyometra. Most especially if the bitch is not intended to be bred in the future then neutering her is unquestionably the best option. If you come to think of it, the neutering approach carries few surgical risks as opposed to the ones linked with incurring the disease itself. Overall, be prepared to seek medical help from your trusted vet if everything goes way out of hand 

Disclaimer

This pet health article is for reference only.

If your pet is showing any symptoms or distress, and you suspect your pet is ill CONTACT YOUR VET IMMEDIATELY.