Monitoring microbiome health using cytology and histopathology

Abstract

Microscopic evaluation of canine female reproductive tract tissues can provide a wealth of information regarding reproductive health of a bitch, including potential issues with fertility. A thorough understanding of procedures used to obtain samples, as well as microscopic anatomy of canine female reproductive tract, is important in order to understand strengths and limitations of these modalities. Appropriate evaluation of canine female reproductive tract using cytology and histopathology requires not only a solid understanding of basic microscopic structure, but also an understanding of how reproductive tract, specifically cranial vagina and endometrium, undergo striking changes during stages of estrous cycle. This review will cover microscopic endometrial structure of bitch, including a review of endometrial histology, sampling techniques, application of microscopic evaluation, and relationship of these methods to microbiome health.