Cystic Endometrial Hyperplasia Research Articles

Endometrial mRNA expression of key inflammatory genes and progesterone receptor in uterine tissue of bitches with endometritis

Our study aimed to evaluate the gene transcription of Cyclooxygenase 1 (COX1), cytokines (Interleukin 6 [IL6], Interleukin 8 [IL8], and Leukemia Inhibitory Factor [LIF]), and Progesterone Receptor (PR) in clinically healthy bitches with a normal endometrium and with endometritis, without the presence of cystic endometrial hyperplasia. Forty-eight mixed breed bitches in dioestrus were used. Uterine biopsies were collected for diagnosis of a normal endometrium (n=15), and endometritis (n=30). Three samples were excluded from the study (two bitches with cystic endometrial hyperplasia and one bitch with atrophy). Samples were collected by cytobrush to quantify mRNA by qPCR. Data were analyzed using a generalized mixed model. COX1, IL6, and IL8 mRNA expression in bitches with endometritis was significantly higher than in a normal endometrium (P=0.0002, P=0.002, and P=0.003, respectively). In contrast, LIF and PR mRNA expression in bitches with endometritis was significantly lower than with a normal endometrium (P=0.006 and P=0.001, respectively). IL6 (AUC 0.67) was the most favorable biomolecular marker for predicting endometritis in bitches. There was an evident change in the mRNA expression of COX1, cytokines, and PR in clinically healthy bitches with a normal endometrium and endometritis without cystic endometrial hyperplasia. These results suggest that biomolecular markers such as COX1, IL6, IL8, LIF, and PR could help diagnose endometritis in a bitch.

Cystic Endometrial Hyperplasia and Pyometra Complex in a Bitch

A 11 years old German Shepherd bitch with the history of abdominal distension, vomiting, and purulent vaginal dis charge was presented to Veterinary Clinical Complex, DUVASU, Mathura. Haematological examination revealed increase in total erythrocyte count and total leucocyte count while decrease in platelet count. The condition was treated with ovariohysterectomy and histopathological examination revealed the condition as cystic endometrial hyperplasia with pyometra complex.

Renal biomarkers, clinical parameters, and renal Doppler velocimetry in bitches with cystic endometrial hyperplasia-pyometra complex.

Cystic endometrial hyperplasia (CEH)-pyometra complex is the most common uterine infection in adult and elderly bitches and can cause renal dysfunction. The aim of this study was to measure and compare urinary creatinine, urea, symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA), urinary protein-creatinine ratio (UPC), measurement of systolic blood pressure (SBP), and Doppler velocimetry of renal arteries in patients with CEH-pyometra complex before and after an average of 6 months of treatment, evaluating the possibility of the changes persisting. The evaluation was conducted at two moments: M1 (at the diagnosis of CEH-pyometra, n = 36) and M2 (after an average of six months of treatment, n = 16). For the control group, eight bitches with no changes in blood tests or history of conditions underwent Doppler ultrasound evaluation of the renal arteries. At both M1 and M2, we measured creatinine, urea, and serum SDMA, UPC, SBP, and Doppler ultrasound of the renal arteries. Patients were evaluated according to the following groups: azotemic (AZO) and non-azotemic (NAZO), and open and closed cervix pyometra. The parameters were compared between animals present in both moments presented as M1R (bitches that were in M1 and M2) and M2. Statistical significance was considered when p < .05. The medians found for creatinine in M1 were as follows: 1.15 mg/dL, being 1.8 mg/dL for AZO (12/36) and 0.95 mg/dL for NAZO (24/36); and in M2: 0.85 mg/dL (16/16), being 1.15 mg/dL for AZO (4/16) and 0.8 mg/dL for NAZO (12/36). For urea, in M1 it was 36 mg/dL (32/36), with AZO being 103 mg/dL (11/32) and 33 mg/dL in NAZO (21/32); and in M2 32 mg/dL (16/ 16), being 29 mg/dL for AZO (4/36), and 31 mg/dL for NAZO (3/15). The median SDMA measured in M1R was 17 μg/dL (15/16), with AZO being 31 μg/dL (3/15), and NAZO being 16.5 μg/dL (12/15); and in M2, SDMA was 12 μg/dL (16/16), with AZO being 12.5 μg/dL (4/16), and NAZO being 12 μg/dL (12/16). The median UPC measured in M1 was 1.15 (10/36), with AZO being 0.25 (1/10), and NAZO being 1.38 (9/10); and in M2, it was 0.2 (13/16), being 0.1 in AZO (4/13), and 0.2 (9/16) in NAZO. For SBP, in M1, it was 118 mmHg (30/36), with AZO being 102 mmHg (10/30) and 133 mmHg in NAZO (20/30); and in M2 142.5 mmHg (12/16), being 155 mmHg for AZO (4/12), and 140 mg/dL for NAZO (8/12). When comparing animals with open and closed cervixes, a difference was found between SDMA measurements (p = .001). There was a distinction between PI and RI of the left and right kidneys consecutively (p = .007; p = .033; p = .019; p = .041). Correlations found in M1: SDMA × PI RIM DIR (r = 0.873; p = .002), SDMA × PSV RIM ESQ (r = 0.840; p = .004), SDMA × EDV RIM ESQ (r = 0.675; p = .046). With this study, we conclude a return to normality of renal biomarkers and clinical parameters after six months. Yet, there is a persistence of Doppler velocimetric measurements between the two moments. Thus, this parameter is not suitable for identifying and classifying chronic kidney injury in bitches with pyometra.

Prenatal to peripubertal exposure to Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate induced endometrial atrophy and fibrosis in female mice

Di(2-ethylhexy) phthalate (DEHP) is a widely used plasticizer that is ubiquitously found in the environment. Using a mouse model, we investigated the impact of early life DEHP exposure ranging from the prenatal to peripubertal developmental period of the female reproductive system. Pregnant female mice were allocated to three groups as follows: control, 100 mg/kg/day, and 500 mg/kg/day DEHP treatment. DEHP exposure was introduced through feeding during pregnancy (3 weeks) and lactation (3 weeks). After weaning, the offspring were also exposed to DEHP through feeding for another 2 weeks. Observations were conducted on female offspring at 10 and 24 weeks. The number of live offspring per dam was significantly lower in the high-DEHP-exposed group (500 mg/kg/day) compared to the control group (7.67 ± 1.24 vs. 14.17 ± 0.31; p < 0.05) despite no difference in pregnancy rates across the groups. Low-DEHP exposure (100 mg/kg/day) resulted to a decreased body weight (36.07 ± 3.78 vs. 50.11 ± 2.11 g; p < 0.05) and decreased left uterine length (10.60 ± 1.34 vs. 14.77 ± 0.82 mm; p < 0.05) in 24-week- old female mice. As early as 10 weeks, endometrial atrophy and fibrosis were observed, and endometrial cystic hyperplasia was noted in female mice at 24 weeks. Our study is the first to demonstrate that female mice exposed to DEHP in the early life developed endometrial fibrosis in the female offspring. Further studies on the consequences of these observations in fecundity and other reproductive functions are warranted.

Small Animal Ovariohysterectomy and Avoidance of Associated Complications in Pet Practices Across Pakistan: A Current Perspective

Ovariohysterectomy (OVH) is a routine surgical procedure in small animal practices for sterilization and management of several uterine diseases, namely pyometra, cystic endometrial hyperplasia, uterine tumors, rupture, and torsion. Ovariohysterectomy (OVH) offers numerous clinical advantages, but post-operative complications could pose financial challenges for veterinarians due to the inherent risk of malpractice suits and clients owing to the extended recovery period for their pets. The authors reviewed about two dozen peer-reviewed English language articles from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases to identify risks and avoidance strategies following OVH. These may include the ones arising from celiotomy (infection, incisional hernias, wound dehiscence, inadvertent injury to organs and adhesions) or affections, such as intraoperative hemorrhage, stump pyometra, ovarian remnant syndrome, ureteral ligation, urinary incontinence, granulomas, fistulous tracts, post-surgery weight gain, and eunuchoid syndrome. This review emphasizes prevention and management methods for each of these complications. Effective surgical techniques play a vital role in preventing hemorrhage, while meticulous resection, ligation, and omentalization of uterine stump reduce the risk of stump pyometra. Complete removal of ovarian tissue and systematic exploration prevent ovarian remnant syndrome. The use of advanced imaging methods, such as ultrasound, fluoroscopy, or CT scans, can greatly aid in identifying and preserving ureters during surgical procedures, thus minimizing the risk of ureteral complications. Strategies to address urinary incontinence, granulomas, and post-surgery weight gain might encompass the use of hormonal therapy involving estradiol analogs or the application of precise surgical techniques involving ureteral reimplantation. Innovative strategies such as auto-transplantation of ovaries are suggested for managing eunuchoid syndrome, while inadvertent prostatectomy and bowel obstruction may simply be avoided by better tissue handling and dissection. In summary, optimizing surgical protocols, incorporating CT scans, using appropriate drug therapies, and continuous education within the veterinary community are crucial for reducing complications associated with OVH.

Microbiological and hematological aspects of canine pyometra and associated risk factors

Canine Pyometra, also known as cystic endometrial hyperplasia complex, is a common reproductive issue in bitches. This study aimed to identify associated risk factors, hematological variation, bacteria involved, and the most potent anti-bacterial against bacterial isolates of canine pyometra. Forty-five bitches of different habitats, breeds, and ages infected with pyometra were included in the study. The samples were cultured to isolate bacteria associated with the pyometra and antibiotic sensitivity was done for each bacterial isolates to get antibiogram. The study findings showed that potential risk factors such as age group, medroxyprogesterone acetate administration, and changes in the white blood cells parameters were significantly associated (P < 0.05) with the type of pyometra. Closed cervix pyometra in dogs showed significantly higher prevalence of clinical signs including depression, vomiting, abdominal enlargement, and fever compared to the open cervix pyometra. Low levels of red blood cells, pack cell volume, and hemoglobin indicated that the pyometra-infected dogs were more likely to have normocytic, normochromic, and non-regenerative anemia. Pyometra was attributed to an increase in AST (Aspertate aminotransferase), ALT (Alanine transaminase), ALP (Alkaline phosphatase), BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen), and Creatinine while a decrease in serum albumin. Of the all bacterial isolates, E. coli (35.55%) was the most common pathogen isolated from canine pyometra, followed by Pseudomonas spp. (26.66%). E coli and Pseudomonas spp. were susceptible to Imipenem, Amikacin, and Gentamicin while highly resistant to Ampicillin and Erythromycin. Imipenem, Amikacin, and Gentamicin were the most sensitive antibiotics, while Ampicillin and Erythromycin were the most resistant antibiotics for the bacterial strain isolated from canine pyometra. Multidrug resistant was observed in 26 of the isolated bacteria, indicating acquired resistance due to improper and uncontrolled use. Hence early diagnosis and close monitoring of antimicrobial susceptibility before therapeutic intervention is indispensable in preventing the global threat of antimicrobial resistance.

Cystic endometrial hyperplasia-pyometra syndrome impairs the preantral follicle reserve in domestic bitches (Canis familiaris)

Cystic endometrial hyperplasia (CEH)-pyometra syndrome is the most common uterine pathological condition reported in breeding bitches, however, their described effects on fertility are limited to uterine disorders and conception rates. As the preantral follicle population represents the available reserve of gametes recruited during the lifespan, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of CEH-pyometra syndrome on the: (i) preantral follicle morphology, (ii) developing follicle rates, and (iii) preantral follicle and stromal cell densities. Ovarian fragments from bitches subjected to elective or therapeutic ovariohysterectomy were allocated according to uterine diagnosis as follows: control (n = 7, clinically healthy), CEH-mucometra (n = 8, uterine lumen filled with a sterile mucus), and pyometra (n = 17, presence of a purulent mucus) groups. Overall, the control group had 3.4 and 4.1-fold higher probability (P < 0.0001) of the presence of normal preantral follicles compared with CEH-mucometra and pyometra groups, respectively. Moreover, ovarian fragments from the pyometra group showed an increase in the percentage of developing follicles (P < 0.05) compared to the control. Both CEH-mucometra and pyometra groups showed lower (P < 0.05) preantral follicle and stromal cell densities (P < 0.05) compared to the control. In summary, the CEH-pyometra syndrome decreased the percentage of morphologically normal follicles and enhanced the developing follicle rates. Additionally, a reduction of preantral follicle and stromal cell densities suggests that the inappropriate uterine environment induced by CEH-pyometra syndrome can lead to premature depletion of ovarian reserve.

Observations about declining fertility in a feline breeding colony

Feline breeding colonies are important to the feline industry by preserving traits desirable for a particular breed or in research settings by maintaining medically valuable genetic traits. As breeding females age, their reproductive efficiency declines. The objective of this study was to determine the most common causes of infertility in breeding females that were producing fewer kittens. Knowing the cause and average age of infertility would allow management decisions to be made for the betterment of the colony. The medical records of 70 queens retired from breeding from a single research colony were examined for litter size and number, fertility over their lifespan, and age and reason for removal from breeding stock. Sections of uterus and ovaries were evaluated using gross and histopathological examination for a subset of these queens (46). The data suggests that mature, continuously breeding female cats may show signs of reduced fertility (infertile matings or reduced litter size) as early as 3 years of age and may be a result of undiagnosed Cystic Endometrial Hyperplasia (CEH), endometritis, pyometra and/or ovarian cysts. Evaluation of breeding queens should include periodic ultrasounds to monitor for ovarian cysts and evidence of CEH. Retiring animals from breeding once signs of infertility become apparent is recommended.

Causes of pregnancy arrest in the canine species.

In the canine species, early pregnancy arrest before 30-40 days of pregnancy will induce intra-uterine embryonic or foetal resorption, with very few clinical signs. If no genital examination by ultrasound is performed at that time, it will often remain unnoticed and the bitch will be qualified as infertile. It is only when pregnancy stops at a later stage, mostly after 40 days, that clinical signs will be seen. Expulsion of aborted foetuses or placentas may be observed, although the dam frequently eats the expelled tissues. Intra-uterine mummification may also occur. This article reviews the causes of pregnancy termination in the bitch, both at the embryonic and the foetal stages, reported in the literature. Canine brucellosis is by far the most important disease concerned in this aspect. There is an important current concern about this disease, due to the fact that several outbreaks have been observed recently in Europe, and that it is a very contagious disease; it may be an underestimated zoonosis. Other bacterial causes of pregnancy arrest are sporadic. There is, however, a growing attention towards the microbiological content of raw food diets which are more and more popular among dog breeders and may-if badly prepared-contain abortifacient bacteria such as Campylobacter jejuni or Listeria monocytogenes. The abortifacient role of endogenous vaginal bacteria and mycoplasms remains unclear and may be related to an imbalanced vaginal flora with subsequent ascending bacterial contamination of the uterus. The role of Canine Herpesvirus on abortion is controversial and probably not frequent. Other viruses have been shown experimentally to induce abortion but their natural occurrence in this respect remains unknown. The same applies to the parasite Neospora caninum which is suspected, but not proven, potentially to induce pregnancy arrest in bitches. Among non-infectious causes, uterine pathology such as cystic endometrial hyperplasia (CEH) or sub-clinical post-mating endometritis which can cause infertility and may also induce embryonic resorption. The role of luteal insufficiency in pregnancy arrest is probably overestimated.

Expression and localization of the neuropeptide phoenixin-14 and its receptor GRP173 in the canine reproductive organs and periovarian adipose tissue

Phoenixin-14 (PNX-14) is a regulatory neuropeptide encoded by the SMIM20 gene, which has been implicated in the reproductive cycle by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Recently, we showed that PNX-14 is downregulated in bitches with cystic endometrial hyperplasia and pyometra. The objective of this study was to determine the expression of Smim20, PNX-14, and its putative receptor GRP173 in the canine ovary (both healthy and those with ovarian cysts), periovarian adipose tissue (PAT) and in the endometrium during the oestrous cycle. The expression was analysed by RT-qPCR and Western blot. In tissue sections, peptides were localised by immunofluorescent assays, and blood plasma concentrations of PNX-14 were detected by EIA. The results demonstrated increased levels of PNX in bitches in the anestrus groups compared to diestrus animals. The expression of GPR173 increased in PAT during the diestrus phase and endometrial tissue in late diestrus bitches. In the ovary, strong signals of PNX-14 and GPR173 were detected in the luteal and follicular cells. Furthermore, bitches with cystic ovaries were characterised by elevated circulating PNX levels and a significantly higher expression of PNX and GPR173 in gonadal tissues, when compared with healthy animals. Moreover, a positive correlation between PNX and progesterone in the blood of healthy bitches was noted, which changed to a negative correlation in females affected by cystic ovaries. These studies expand the knowledge regarding the expression and localization of the PNX/GRP173 system in canine reproductive organs during physiological and pathological conditions.

Pyometra in a puppy after first oestrus

AbstractA 7‐month‐old, female, entire Maltese × Shih Tzu × Bichon Frise puppy was presented for vomiting, diarrhoea, inappetence and lethargy. On physical examination, abdominal pain and purulent vulvar discharge was noted. Vital signs were within normal limits. Abdominal radiographs and abdominal ultrasound revealed an enlarged, fluid‐filled uterus. Ovariohysterectomy was performed, and pyometra was confirmed on histopathology of the uterus. The puppy made a full recovery with no complications. This case report aims to raise awareness among readers that pyometra can occur independently in puppies in the absence of underlying cystic endometrial hyperplasia and highlights the importance of visual inspection of the external genitalia during physical examination, especially in entire animals.

Uterine issues in infertile queens: Nine cases

This prospective case series investigated potential uterine causes of infertility in queens. Purebred queens with infertility (failure to conceive, embryonic death, or failure to maintain pregnancy and produce viable kittens), but no other reproductive disorders were examined approximately 1–8 weeks before mating (Visit 1), 21 days after mating (Visit 2), and 45 days after mating (Visit 3) if pregnant at Visit 2. Investigations included vaginal cytology and bacteriology, urine bacteriology, and ultrasonography. At Visit 2 or 3, uterine biopsy or ovariohysterectomy was performed for histology. Of nine eligible queens, seven were non-pregnant by ultrasound at Visit 2 and two had lost pregnancies by Visit 3. Ovulation was confirmed by serum progesterone concentration in all queens. Ultrasonic appearance of the ovaries and uterus was compatible with a healthy status except for one queen with signs of cystic endometrial hyperplasia (CEH) and pyometra, a follicular cyst in another, and fetal resorptions in two queens. Six cats had histologic lesions of endometrial hyperplasia, including CEH (n=1). Only one cat had no histologic uterine lesions. Bacteria were cultured from vaginal samples in seven queens at Visit 1, (two were non-evaluable), and in five of seven queens sampled at Visit 2. Uterine cultures were negative except for the cat with pyometra. All urine cultures were negative. In summary, the most frequent pathology observed in these infertile queens was histologic endometrial hyperplasia, which can potentially inhibit embryo implantation and healthy placental development. This suggests that uterine disease might contribute substantially to infertility in purebred queens.

Expression Profile of Prostaglandin Enzymes in Cystic Endometrial Hyperplasia in Dogs: The Results of a Hypothesis in Clinical Trial

Expression Profile of Prostaglandin Enzymes in Cystic Endometrial Hyperplasia in Dogs: The Results of a Hypothesis in Clinical Trial

Ovarian papillary carcinoma in a Mongolian gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus)

Neoplasms are among the most impacting disease diagnoses in veterinary medicine and have become increasingly common due to the greater longevity of animals as living conditions improved. The Mongolian gerbil is a small rodent species that has become popular recently. In these animals, the occurrence of neoplastic processes is relatively common, mainly tumors of the ventral gland in males and ovarian tumors in females. This work aims to report an ovarian tumor in a Mongolian gerbil Meriones unguiculatus Milne-Edwards 1867 (Rodentia, Muridae). At the initial presentation, the animal had dyspnea, prostration, and increased abdominal volume in the topography of the right ovary of approximately 2 cm. The animal was submitted to exploratory laparotomy because of the emergency nature of the case and the owners’ refusal of additional exams due to financial restrictions. Thus, an ovariohysterectomy was performed, followed by a histopathological examination. The histopathology revealed an ovarian papillary carcinoma affecting both ovaries and cystic endometrial hyperplasia. With surgical removal and drainage of the thoracic fluid, the animal showed good recovery, with general improvement and return to regular activity, with a life expectancy of two years. Currently, the demand for specialized veterinarians for unconventional pets is increasing. This condition allows owners to raise their animals more properly, favoring greater longevity. Knowledge about the prevalence and incidence of diseases in different species is of enormous relevance in establishing the appropriate therapy, improving life quality, and increasing life expectancy in animals’ lives.

Cystic Endometrial Hyperplasia (CEH) in a Common Marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) kept in Zoo

Cystic endometrial hyperplasia is a neoplasm that affects the reproductive system of uncastrated females. The main causes that lead to the appearance of this disease are the accumulation of exudate and uterine inflammation that, when evolving, can cause sepsis in the animal, increasing the chances of leading to death. Clinical signs of cystic endometrial hyperplasia include anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, depression, polydipsia and polyuria, in addition to purulent vaginal discharge. A common marmoset female arrived at a zoo as a result of illegal trafficking. His history was unknown, but he showed signs of osteodystrophy, which was promptly treated and the case improved. After a few months, the animal showed signs of cystitis, including hematuria and vulvar licking, which was treated with antibiotics and the treatment was successful. However, after being diagnosed again with cystitis, antibiotic therapy was not effective, which led to the indication of an ultrasound examination that indicated the presence of hyperechogenic cysts in the right ovary and uterine enlargement. In view of this, therapeutic castration was chosen, since the zoo was not interested in reproducing the species. Thus, the procedure was successfully performed and the changes indicated in the ultrasound were confirmed. The animal underwent a satisfactory recovery and since then has not had any of the signs it had previously shown. After evaluating all possible treatments, it was concluded that the best option for this case was surgical therapy. However, it is possible that the patient will experience hormonal changes in the future. In view of this, it is extremely important to carry out the correct diagnosis so that the problem is treated as early as possible.

Detailed Pathophysiological Investigation of Canine Pyometra and the Curative Role of Ovariohysterectomy

Background: Pyometra or cystic endometrial hyperplasia complex in dogs is a hormonally mediated bacterial disease wherein middle-aged bitches are most affected. The current study was carried out in pyometra-affected bitches to determine the alterations in hormonal, histopathological and haemato-biochemical profiles after 14 days of ovariohysterectomy. Methods: Blood samples were collected both from control (n=15) and affected bitches (n=15) showing signs of open cervix pyometra preoperatively and postoperatively on the day of surgery, on the 7th and 14th day after ovariohysterectomy. Blood samples were subjected to the estimation of endocrinological and hematobiochemical parameters. The ovary, oviduct and uterus were collected for gross and histological observations. Result: The pre-operative serum progesterone (ng/ml) recorded in bitches affected with pyometra were 9-fold higher than controls (9.77±2.64 vs 0.61±0.66) (P less than 0.01). There was a non-significant difference in the pre-operative (414.63±62.88) and post-operative (390.6±54.20) estrogen concentration and the results indicated a presence of an extragonadal source of estrogen. The enormous endometrial lumen of these cysts contained eosinophilic hazy granular material and tissue debris along with massive infiltration of inflammatory cells, predominantly neutrophils. The findings of the study revealed that progesterone is the major contributory factor and extragonadal sources of estrogen may be present along with hyperplastic changes in the uterine and glandular epithelium in pyometra-affected bitches.

Differential expression of inflammatory cytokines, prostaglandin synthases and secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor in the endometrium and circulation in different graded CEH-pyometra in bitch

Cystic endometrial hyperplasia (CEH)-pyometra (CEH-P) is one of the most common reproductive disorders in bitches, posing a risk to both future fertility and life. The aims of the current study were to elucidate the differential expression patterns of inflammatory mediators at transcript and protein levels in the endometrium and to assess the concentrations of key inflammatory mediators in the peripheral circulation of bitches with different graded CEH-P. A total of 25 client-owned intact mixed breed bitches of 3–10 years presented to the outpatient department of RVP-TVCC of the institute were considered for the study. Of which, 22 cases suggestive of pyometra and 3 cases of CEH obtained during routine elective ovariohysterectomy were subjected to histopathological examination. Uteri were categorized into CEH (n = 3), moderate CEH-P (mCEH-P, n = 9), severe CEH-P (sCEH-P, n = 6) and atrophic pyometra (AT-P, n = 7). A group of age matched (n = 12) bitches without pyometra served as control. Endometrial transcripts such as IL6, IL8, PTGS2, PGFS, and SLPI were expressed differentially in the CEH and CEH-P bitch. In addition, a strong immunoreactivity (IR) of IL6, IL8, PTGS2, and mPGES1 was recorded in the sCEH-P uterus, while expression of IL10 was noticed in AT-P. In circulation, serum IL6 was the most relevant marker with high sensitivity of 96.2% and specificity of 84.6% at a cut off concentration 8.5 pg/mL followed by SLPI with 95.2% sensitivity, and 84.6% specificity at cut off concentration of 1.3 ng/mL. Serum IL10, PGFM and SLPI concentration in the peripheral circulation were 1.5–2.23 fold higher in mCEH-P, 0.87–2.5 fold higher in sCEH-P and 2.9–3.5 fold higher in AT-P than that of control. It is concluded that monitoring the serum concentration of IL6, IL10 and SLPI would be useful adjunct to the established hematobiochemical parameters in the management of pyometra in the bitch with critical illness.

Isolation and Antibiogram of Escherichia coli from Canine Pyometra in Puducherry Region

Pyometra is a life-threatening and hormone induced cystic endometrial hyperplasia seen predominantly in older bitches, complicated with secondary bacterial infections. This study was performed with the objective of isolation and antibiogram of Escherichia coli from canine pyometra. Vaginal swabs were collected aseptically from 20 canine pyometra cases, presented to Veterinary Clinical Complex, Puducherry (India) for identification of E. coli isolates. Based on colony characters, microscopic observation, biochemical tests, 12 (60%) E. coli isolates were identified. All the 12 phenotypically positive E. coli isolates were confirmed further by PCR using the primer targeting alr gene. E. coli isolates were found sensitive to Gentamicin (100%), Ceftriaxone (83%), Enrofloxacin (75%) and Ciprofloxacin (66%), but were resistant to commonly used antibiotics like Amoxyclav (100%), Ceftazidime (58%) and Cefotaxime (42%). The results provided an authentic and reliable information to choose an effective antibiotic to treat E. coli infection causing canine pyometra.

Ultrasound Diagnosis in Small Ruminants: Occurrence and Description of Genital Pathologies.

This study reports the occurrence and appearance of various reproductive tract pathologies of small ruminants diagnosed using ultrasound. An eight-year retrospective study of collected ultrasound data was carried out in Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil from September 2012 to July 2020. A total of 3463 animals from 16 sheep flocks and 10 dairy goat flocks, raised under extensive and intensive management systems, respectively, were used in the study. All animals were submitted to an ultrasound examination of their reproductive tract. Data were analyzed using Fisher's exact test (p &lt; 0.05), to compare disorder frequencies within and between species. Ewes (4.14%) had fewer reproductive disorders than does (8.98%), while rams (43.63%) and bucks (56.25%) presented no significant differences. Hydrometra was the most frequent finding in does, represented by 50.98% of cases; while, in ewes, recent fetal loss (22.85%) and cystic endometrial hyperplasia (20.00%) were the most frequent. In bucks, the findings showed no clear differences; while, for rams, the most frequent finding was testicular microlithiasis (75.00%). Ultrasonography offers clinically useful information about the reproductive tract via the images it provides; knowledge of which makes it possible to improve the diagnosis, therapy, and prognosis of genital pathologies.

Repeated pregnancy in a bitch, with a diagnosis of extensive cystic endometrial hyperplasia, after the exact determination of the optimal time for breeding

A 6-year-old bitch was presented to the clinical examination with the aim of determining the optimal time for intrauterine insemination by frozen-thawed semen. The bitch had already had two litters in the past. Extensive cystic endometrial hyperplasia was diagnosed by an ultrasound examination in the bitch. The timing of the endoscopic transcervical insemination by a combination of ultrasonographic examination of the ovaries and determining the progesterone concentrations contributed to the successful conception in the bitch. The ultrasonographic examination of the ovaries represents a non-invasive method which allowed us to view the changes on the ovaries in real time and, thus, is a very suitable method for the specification of the ovulation time in bitches. Cystic endometrial hyperplasia is considered to be a possible cause of infertility. Nevertheless, the bitch repeatedly conceived and had larger litter sizes. Moreover, a considerable reduction in the number of endometrial cysts was observed after the third pregnancy of the bitch. In the described clinical case, the influence of the cystic endometrial hyperplasia on the conception was not demonstrated.