A case of fetal maceration in a dog

Abstract

Fetal maceration is a process which is characterized by enzymatic autolysis of cells and degeneration of connective tissue. In this case, fetal maceration was described in a female dog. A 22 months old, 32 kg female Golden Retriever dog was brought to the Animal Hospital of Afyon Kocatepe University with the complaints of whitish and foul-smelling vaginal discharge, anorexia and weakness nearly two months. The body temperature, respiratory and pulse rates were at normal values. In the ultrasound examination, hyperechogenic areas were detected in the uterus. Before the ovariohysterectomy operation, an adhesion was determined between left uterine horn and the omentum. Furthermore, a huge solid and vascularized structure was detected in the left horn. After removal of the ovaries and the uterus, a foul-smelling mucous structure of brown-reddish fluid and fetal bone residues were found after incision and inspection to the uterus. Considering all findings, the patient was diagnosed with fetal maceration. In the postoperative period, the process was supported with systemic antibiotics and periodic wound care for the first seven days, recovery was achieved and no complications were encountered in the next six months. Since the case is rarely seen, veterinarians should not overlook this problem in bitches and they are recommended to use ultrasound in examinations.