​Pathomorphological, Haemato-biochemical and Diagnostic Imaging Studies in Canine Pyometra

Abstract

Background: Pyometra is the most common genital affections observed in bitches around the globe in-spite of advancement of disease diagnosis and treatment. Paucity of available literature regarding pyometra in canines in Odisha prompted to undertake an in-depth analysis on determinants linked to epidemiology, haemato-biochemical, clinicopathological and diagnostic imaging in pyometra bitches. Methods: During the period 2019-20, a total of 148 bitches were screened for canine pyometra in and around Bhubaneswar, Odisha on the basis of clinical signs, haematology and diagnostic imaging. Uterus was collected after ovario-hysterectomy and processed for histopathology through routine haematoxylin and eosin staining. Result: The overall incidence of pyometra was 15.54% with 4% mortality rate. Present study recorded a significant higher occurrence of pyometra in older bitches ( greater than 7 year, 78.26%), smaller breeds like Spitz (47.82%), nulliparous bitches (60.86%) and dogs in dioestrus stage (82.60%). Haematological examinations revealed anaemia with marked leucocytosis and neutrophilia. There was significant increase in AST, ALT, ALP and BUN concentrations in affected bitches. Enlarged uterus with hypo echoic tubular structures containing mostly echogenic fluids were constant findings through ultrasonography. Flabby uterine horns with thick and corrugated endometrial wall containing profuse mucopurulent exudates were seen during necropsy. Chronic inflammatory response leading to intense haemorrhages and hyperaemia were constant microscopic changes. The most common isolated pathogen in canine pyometra was Escherechia coli (67.5%).