Canine Pyometra

Pyometra, literally meaning pus in the uterus, is a common disease entity of intact bitches. Similar conditions occur, including hydrometra and mucometra [De Bosschere H, Ducatelle R, Vermeirsch H, Van Den Broeck W, Coryn M. Cystic endometrial hyperplasia-pyometra complex in the bitch: should the two entities be disconnected? Theriogenology 2001;55:1509-19]. The exact etiology is unknown; however the repeated and prolonged response to estrogen followed by long intervals of progesterone dominance in the intact bitch leads to hormonally mediated changes in the endometrium. The endometrium changes when impacted by bacterial infiltration; changes in endometrial steroid receptors can result in the clinical syndrome described as pyometra. This paper will describe the signalment, risk factors, prevalence, proposed etiologic events, and both medical and surgical therapies. In addition, the prognosis for successful outcome and effects on future reproduction will also be described.