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Reproduction & Fertility Apr 2021Effects of conservative treatment on uterine blood flow and morphometric findings are still unknown in bitches. Thus, this study aimed to compare uterine changes of...
UNLABELLED
Effects of conservative treatment on uterine blood flow and morphometric findings are still unknown in bitches. Thus, this study aimed to compare uterine changes of pyometra bitches subjected to distinct modes of treatment. Pyometra bitches were assigned to: OHE (ovariohysterectomy immediately after diagnosis), Aglepristone (days 1, 2 and 8) and Associative (aglepristone treatment coupled with cloprostenol for 7 days) groups. After 9 days, bitches were ovariohysterectomized. Before surgery, uterine area was measured ultrasonographically and the uterine artery Doppler velocimetry analyzed blood flow velocity and indexes. Uterine horns were classified according to resistance index (RI) as more compromised and less compromised. Endometrial vasculature was quantitatively evaluated by color flow Doppler. Blood samples were collected to determine nitric oxide (NO) concentrations. Histological uterine structures were quantified by stereology and VEGF-A (vascular endothelial growth factor) and eNOS were (endothelial nitric oxide synthase) immunohistochemically analyzed. Aglepristone and Associative groups had lower uterine area and vascularization, and higher blood flow velocity and indexes compared to OHE group. Less compromised horn of Associative group had higher blood flow velocity compared to OHE group. Aglepristone group presented lower inflammatory infiltrate and larger uterine stroma. Associative group had lower volume density and absolute surface of endometrial cysts and lower VEGF-A expression for glandular epithelium and stromal cells. Blood NO and e-NOS immunostaining were not different among groups. In conclusion, association between aglepristone and prostaglandin is more effective in decreasing uterine vascularization and modulating uterine blood flow. Moreover, associative therapy promotes marked morphological changes.
LAY SUMMARY
This research compared two medical protocols of treatment for uterine infection (pyometra) in bitches, using a hormone blocker (anti-progesterone aglepristone) solely or in association with a uterine contraction inducer (prostaglandin; associative therapy). After treatment, bitches were gonadectomized and a microscopic analysis of uterine blood vessel formation and uterine tissue elements were performed as well as uterine blood flow evaluation through Doppler ultrasonography. According to vascular resistance, uterine horns were additionally classified as more compromised and less compromised. Both treatment protocols led to reduction of uterine dimensions and vascularization, and higher blood flow compared to untreated bitches. Less compromised uterine horn of the associative treatment had higher blood flow compared to untreated bitches. The hormone blocker treatment had lower inflammatory cells and larger uterine histological structure, while associative treatment had less uterine pathological cysts and lower blood vessel formation. The associative therapy is effective in decreasing uterine vascularization and modulating uterine blood flow as well as reestablishing endometrium structure in bitches with uterine infection.
Topics: Animals; Cysts; Dog Diseases; Dogs; Endometritis; Female; Hormones; Humans; Pregnancy; Progestins; Prostaglandins; Pyometra; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A
PubMed: 35128446
DOI: 10.1530/RAF-20-0020 -
Animal Reproduction Science Mar 2022The most common uterine diseases affecting bitches are cystic endometrial hyperplasia (CEH) and pyometra. The neuropeptide phoenixin (PNX) and its receptor (GPR173) are...
The most common uterine diseases affecting bitches are cystic endometrial hyperplasia (CEH) and pyometra. The neuropeptide phoenixin (PNX) and its receptor (GPR173) are potential key factors involved in the proliferative and inflammatory regulation of the reproductive system in females. This study aimed to evaluate the expression of PNX and GPR173 by qPCR, western blot and immunofluorescence assays in the endometrium of bitches suffering from CEH or pyometra compared to clinically healthy females. Additionally, PNX and progesterone (P4) plasma concentrations were analysed. The results showed a significantly lower expression levels of PNX and GPR173 (mRNA and protein production) in bitches with the CEH or pyometra groups compared to healthy animals. Immunofluorescence staining examination also confirmed a lower concentration of PNX and GPR173 signals in bitches with pathological uteri. Moreover, a lower concentration of PNX blood levels in bitches suffering from pyometra was observed. The PNX concentration was negatively correlated with P4 but only in healthy bitches. These results illustrate that the development of canine uterine disorders may cause a lower expression of PNX and its receptor GPR173.
Topics: Animals; Dog Diseases; Dogs; Endometrial Hyperplasia; Endometrium; Female; Neuropeptides; Pyometra; Uterus
PubMed: 35121414
DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2022.106931 -
BMC Veterinary Research Jun 2022Accumulation of lipid droplets (LDs) was recently observed in pyometra-affected uteri. As data about their nature and function are missing we intended to compare the...
BACKGROUND
Accumulation of lipid droplets (LDs) was recently observed in pyometra-affected uteri. As data about their nature and function are missing we intended to compare the localization, quality and quantity of LDs in canine healthy and pyometra-affected tissues and in an in vitro model.
METHODS AND RESULTS
We characterized LDs in healthy and pyometra uterine tissue samples as well as in canine endometrial epithelial cells (CEECs) in vitro by means of histochemistry, immunohistochemistry, transmission electron microscopy, western blot, and RT-qPCR. Oil Red O (ORO) staining and quantification as well as p-phenylenediamine staining showed a higher number of LDs in epithelial cells of pyometra samples. Immunohistochemistry revealed that the amount of LDs coated by perilipin2 (PLIN2) protein was also higher in pyometra samples. Transmission electron microscopy showed an increase of LD size in surface and glandular epithelial cells of pyometra samples. In cell culture experiments with CEECs, supplementation with oleic acid alone or in combination with cholesterol lead to an increased LD accumulation. The expression of PLIN2 at protein and mRNA level was also higher upon oleic acid supplementation. Most LDs were double positive for ORO and PLIN2. However, ORO positive LDs lacking PLIN2 coating or LDs positive for PLIN2 but containing a lipid class not detectable by ORO staining were identified.
CONCLUSIONS
We found differences in the healthy and pyometra-affected endometrium with respect to LDs size. Moreover, several kinds of LDs seem to be present in the canine endometrium. In vitro studies with CEECs could show their responsiveness to external lipids. Since epithelial cells reacted only to oleic acid stimulation, we assume that the cyclic lipid accumulation in the canine endometrium is based mainly on triglycerides and might serve as energy provision for the developing early embryo. Further studies are necessary to verify the complex role of lipids in the healthy and pyometra-affected canine endometrium.
Topics: Animals; Dog Diseases; Dogs; Endometrium; Female; Lipid Droplets; Oleic Acid; Pyometra; Uterus
PubMed: 35689217
DOI: 10.1186/s12917-022-03321-5 -
Topics in Companion Animal Medicine 2022Current management practices of pyometra in the private practice setting are not well documented. The goal of this study was to understand pyometra management in the...
Current management practices of pyometra in the private practice setting are not well documented. The goal of this study was to understand pyometra management in the private practice setting, and the current relationship private practices have with high quality, high volume, spay-neuter (HQHVSN) clinics regarding referral for pyometra surgery. An anonymous electronic survey was piloted and distributed using SurveyMonkey via email, social media, and the Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association targeting veterinarians who see companion animals. A total of 153 responses were received from June to July 2021, with respondents distributed throughout the United States. Practices performed a median of 10 spay and neuters per week, with the median spay cost being $350 (IQR 250-500) for dogs and $250 (IQR 180-350) for cats. The median cost of a pyometra surgery was $1000 (IQR 700-1500) for dogs and $750 (IQR 450-1000) for cats. All practices treated pyometra at least sometimes, despite the disruption (major 19%, moderate 47%, mild 29%, none 5%) to their day. All pyometra presentations were accepted for treatment at least sometimes: BAR/QAR (98%), depressed or non-ambulatory (88%), and obtunded or lateral (62%) with mean estimated survival of 96%, 74%, and 31%, respectively. The majority (56%) of clients were reported to sometimes have trouble paying for all recommended services, while it was less often reported that clients often (31%) or rarely (13%) had trouble. Private practices willing to refer only did so always 20% of the time and sometimes 36% of the time. Private practices will do what they can to treat most pyometras that present at their practice within a timely manner before referring elsewhere. There is currently inconsistent utilization of HQHVSN clinics as a potential referral resource due to location or appointment availability.
Topics: Animals; Dog Diseases; Dogs; Female; Humans; Private Practice; Pyometra; Surveys and Questionnaires; Veterinarians
PubMed: 35918019
DOI: 10.1016/j.tcam.2022.100695 -
Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery Mar 2022Cats are common pets worldwide. Successful breeding of cats starts with the selection of suitable breeding animals, and care should be taken to avoid inbreeding. Keeping... (Review)
Review
PRACTICAL RELEVANCE
Cats are common pets worldwide. Successful breeding of cats starts with the selection of suitable breeding animals, and care should be taken to avoid inbreeding. Keeping cats in smaller groups reduces stress and facilitates management.
CLINICAL CHALLENGES
Breeding cats is challenging in many ways. Group housing is a common scenario, and care should be taken not to have groups that are too large, because of the risk of stress and infectious diseases. Feline pregnancy and parturition both vary in length, which is one reason why it may be challenging to diagnose dystocia. In queens with pyometra, a vaginal discharge may not be evident due to their meticulous cleaning habits.
AUDIENCE
This review is aimed at clinicians in small animal practice, especially those in contact with cat breeders.
PATIENT GROUP
Reproductive emergencies occur in both intentionally and unintentionally bred cats, and more often in young or middle-aged queens. Pyometra tends to be a disease of older queens.
EVIDENCE BASE
Evidence is poor for many conditions in the breeding queen, and information is extrapolated from the dog or based on case reports and case series.
Topics: Animals; Breeding; Cat Diseases; Cats; Communicable Diseases; Dystocia; Female; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Complications; Pyometra; Reproduction
PubMed: 35209770
DOI: 10.1177/1098612X221079708 -
Animals : An Open Access Journal From... Oct 2023Pyometra, characterized by the accumulation of purulent exudate in the uterus, is the most prevalent reproductive disease in canines. While the disease often begins with... (Review)
Review
Pyometra, characterized by the accumulation of purulent exudate in the uterus, is the most prevalent reproductive disease in canines. While the disease often begins with mild local symptoms, it can escalate into peritonitis, sepsis, and multi-organ dysfunction, thereby posing a significant threat to life. Despite the high incidence and recognized significance of canine pyometra, gaps persist in our understanding of its epidemiology, etiology, and pathogenesis. Recent studies have, however, broadened our comprehension of this disease, shedding light on potential new infection sources, etiologies, and the application of clinical predictive biomarkers and new therapeutic protocols. This study aimed to review the current understanding of canine pyometra, with particular emphasis on the latest research concerning its etiology and epidemiology. Furthermore, it addressed key research questions and proposed directions for future investigations into various facets of canine pyometra.
PubMed: 37958065
DOI: 10.3390/ani13213310 -
International Journal of Molecular... Nov 2022Canine pyometra frequently occurs in middle-aged to older intact bitches, which seriously affects the life of dogs and brings an economic loss to their owners. Hence,...
Canine pyometra frequently occurs in middle-aged to older intact bitches, which seriously affects the life of dogs and brings an economic loss to their owners. Hence, finding a key metabolite is very important for the diagnosis and development of a new safe and effective therapy for the disease. In this study, dogs with pyometra were identified by blood examinations, laboratory analyses and diagnostic imaging, and fifteen endometrium tissues of sick dogs with pyometra and fifteen controls were collected and their metabolites were identified utilizing a UHPLC-qTOF-MS-based untargeted metabolomics approach. The results indicated that the elevated inflammatory cells were observed in dogs with pyometra, suggesting that sick dogs suffered systemic inflammation. In the untargeted metabolic profile, 705 ion features in the positive polarity mode and 414 ion features in the negative polarity mode were obtained in endometrium tissues of sick dogs with pyometra, with a total of 275 differential metabolites (173 in positive and 102 in negative polarity modes). Moreover, the multivariate statistical analyses such as PCA and PLS-DA also showed that the metabolites were significantly different between the two groups. Then, these differential metabolites were subjected to pathway analysis using Metaboanalyst 4.0, and Galactose metabolism, cAMP signaling pathway and Glycerophospholipid metabolism were enriched, proving some insights into the metabolic changes during pyometra. Moreover, the receiver operating characteristic curves further confirmed kynurenic acid was expected to be a candidate biomarker of canine pyometra. In conclusion, this study provided a new idea for exploring early diagnosis methods and a safe and effective therapy for canine pyometra.
Topics: Female; Humans; Dogs; Animals; Pyometra; Dog Diseases; Metabolomics; Inflammation; Biomarkers
PubMed: 36430638
DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214161 -
Veterinary Sciences Mar 2022We aimed to investigate the occurrence, phylogeny, and virulence of in the uterine contents and urine of female dogs with pyometra, through the presence of virulence...
We aimed to investigate the occurrence, phylogeny, and virulence of in the uterine contents and urine of female dogs with pyometra, through the presence of virulence genes and their genetic similarity. Uterine secretions and urine samples from 52 female dogs with pyometra were collected and cultured. Strains identified as from 25 uterine and 7 urine samples were tested for virulence genes by PCR. Genetic similarity between the isolates was studied using RAPD-PCR. was observed in 48.07% uterine samples with pyometra and 20.0% urine samples. The strains showed high percentages for the presence of virulence genes: 96.9% had the gene , 59.4% 46.9% , 53.1% , and 68.75% . Even with the high prevalence of virulence genes, the samples were not submitted to DNA sequencing to confirm the results. Analysis showed high genetic diversity in however, strains isolated from the same animal indicate that cystitis and pyometra could be related. Our study indicated the association between in dogs with pyometra and cases of urinary tract infection and the pathogenic potential of strains increasing with animal age.
PubMed: 35448656
DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9040158 -
Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland) Jul 2021Pyometra is a life-threatening infectious disease that frequently affects bitches and queens. Although histopathological patterns of pyometra have been extensively...
Pyometra is a life-threatening infectious disease that frequently affects bitches and queens. Although histopathological patterns of pyometra have been extensively explored, the microbiological aspects, such as bacteria pathogenicity, have not been correlated to microscopy endometrial lesions so far. In this study, these two pathological aspects of pyometra were analysed and correlated. Uterus fragments and intrauterine content samples were collected from pets diagnosed with pyometra (30) and submitted to histopathology analysis and bacterial culture, respectively. The degree of endometrial histopathological lesions in pyometra cases were classified as mild, moderate and severe. Thirty different bacteria isolates were identified from intrauterine content culture. () was pure isolated in 57.7% and highly related to severe endometrial lesions. Immunohistochemistry assay revealed the adhesion and invasion of this bacteria agent to the injured endometrium. Virulence aspects of these strains were explored, demonstrating biofilm formation ability and a set of virulence genes in most isolates. These results support the adaptive genetic and phenotypic advantages of for uterus infection, and justify the high frequency of this agent involved in pyometra cases.
PubMed: 34357983
DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10070833 -
Tierarztliche Praxis. Ausgabe G,... Oct 2019
Topics: Animals; Female; Horses; Humans; Pyometra; Stents
PubMed: 31634946
DOI: 10.1055/a-1004-9876