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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 -
Animal Microbiome Jun 2022Multidrug resistance in companion animals poses significant risks to animal and human health. Prolonged antimicrobial drug (AMD) treatment in animals is a potential...
BACKGROUND
Multidrug resistance in companion animals poses significant risks to animal and human health. Prolonged antimicrobial drug (AMD) treatment in animals is a potential source of selection pressure for antimicrobial resistance (AMR) including in the gastrointestinal microbiota. We performed a prospective study of dogs treated for septic peritonitis, pyometra, or bacterial pneumonia and collected repeated fecal samples over 60 days. Bacterial cultures and direct molecular analyses of fecal samples were performed including targeted resistance gene profiling.
RESULTS
Resistant Escherichia coli increased after 1 week of treatment (D1:21.4% vs. D7:67.9% P < 0.001) and returned to baseline proportions by D60 (D7:67.9% vs D60:42.9%, P = 0.04). Dogs with septic peritonitis were hospitalized significantly longer than those with pneumonia or pyometra. Based on genetic analysis, Simpson's diversity index significantly decreased after 1 week of treatment (D1 to D7, P = 0.008), followed by a gradual increase to day 60 (D1 and D60, P = 0.4). Detection of CTX-M was associated with phenotypic resistance to third-generation cephalosporins in E. coli (OR 12.1, 3.3-68.0, P < 0.001). Lincosamide and macrolide-resistance genes were more frequently recovered on days 14 and 28 compared to day 1 (P = 0.002 and P = 0.004 respectively).
CONCLUSION
AMR was associated with prescribed drugs but also developed against AMDs not administered during the study. Companion animals may be reservoirs of zoonotic multidrug resistant pathogens, suggesting that veterinary AMD stewardship and surveillance efforts should be prioritized.
PubMed: 35659110
DOI: 10.1186/s42523-022-00178-9 -
Veterinary Medicine and Science Sep 2022This report documents a rare case of vulvar discharge associated with exogenous oestrogen exposure in a large-breed dog.
OBJECTIVE
This report documents a rare case of vulvar discharge associated with exogenous oestrogen exposure in a large-breed dog.
CASE DESCRIPTION
A 4-year-old spayed Weimaraner bitch was presented for evaluation of inappetence and intermittent sanguineous vulvar discharge. Physical examination, vaginal cytology, haematological, and ultrasonographic findings were indicative of a uterine stump pyometra. A celiotomy was performed, and the uterine stump appeared grossly cystic and thickened. Histopathological evaluation of the removed uterine stump and ovarian pedicles revealed cystic endometrial hyperplasia and no ovarian tissue. Fifteen days after surgery, the patient presented again with a sanguineous vulvar discharge. Vaginal cytology revealed predominantly superficial cells, indicating oestrogen influence. Further questioning of the owner revealed the long-term use of a topical oestrogen cream by a member of the household. Serial examinations were performed, and the cytology remained uniform, with predominantly superficial cells, indicating continued oestrogen influence. Progesterone and anti-Müllerian hormone tests were negative, which made the presence of ectopic ovarian tissue unlikely. These results coupled with the history of topical oestrogen cream use in the household suggested that the patient's clinical signs were most likely due to exogenous oestrogen exposure. After the owner implemented various recommendations made to prevent the exposure, the clinical signs resolved completely.
CONCLUSIONS
This case demonstrates that although rare, exogenous oestrogen exposure can be a cause of vulvar discharge in a large-breed spayed bitch. Therefore, regardless of the breed, exogenous oestrogen exposure must be included in the list of differential diagnoses for all clinical presentations associated with oestrogenic influence in dogs.
Topics: Animals; Anti-Mullerian Hormone; Dog Diseases; Dogs; Estrogens; Female; Patient Discharge; Progesterone
PubMed: 35622883
DOI: 10.1002/vms3.860 -
Veterinary Sciences May 2022Despite its high frequency and clinical relevance, the pathogenesis of canine pyometra remains poorly understood. The most accepted hypothesis is that bacteria involved...
Despite its high frequency and clinical relevance, the pathogenesis of canine pyometra remains poorly understood. The most accepted hypothesis is that bacteria involved ascend from the intestinal tract, causing the uterine infection. Extraintestinal pathogenic (ExPEC) is the most frequent pathogen in canine pyometra, accounting for 57-100% of cases. The aim of the present study was to determine the frequency of phylogenetic groups and virulence factors in strains isolated from the uterine and rectal swabs of bitches with pyometra ( = 72) and from rectal swabs from healthy bitches fed commercial dry feed ( = 53) or a raw meat-based diet (RMBD; = 38). A total of 512 strains of were isolated and divided into five categories according to the origin of the sample: 120 isolates from the uterine content of dogs with pyometra, 102 from the feces of bitches with pyometra, 75 from the feces of bitches without pyometra, 130 feces samples from healthy dogs fed commercial feed, and 85 feces samples from healthy dogs fed a raw meat-based diet. strains belonging to the B2 phylogroup and positive for virulence factor genes associated with adhesion (fimbriae type P []) and production of toxins (α-hemolysin [] and uropathogenic specific protein []) predominated in the uterine content and rectal swabs of bitches with pyometra. Interestingly, a lower growth rate of from the B2 phylogroup was observed in dogs fed a RMBD than in those fed commercial dry feed. The present study suggests that intestinal colonization by certain types of could be a risk factor for the occurrence of pyometra in bitches and that diet can influence intestinal colonization by such strains.
PubMed: 35622773
DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9050245 -
Journal of Medical Case Reports May 2022The spread of cervical squamous cell carcinoma to the inner surface of the uterus with replacement of the endometrium is rare. Continuity of the lesion must be... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
The spread of cervical squamous cell carcinoma to the inner surface of the uterus with replacement of the endometrium is rare. Continuity of the lesion must be demonstrated to confirm superficial spread and rule out concomitant endometrial cancer.
CASE PRESENTATION
We present the case of a 66-year-old white woman with superficial spreading squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix that involved the endometrium. Her relevant past history included conization of the cervix to treat cervical intraepithelial neoplasia III with positive margins. She subsequently had three negative cervical vaginal cytology results, each with a positive high-risk human papillomavirus test. Transvaginal ultrasound showed occupation of the entire uterine cavity by dense material consistent with pyometra in addition to myometrial thinning due to tension and cervical dilation. The patient presented with greenish vaginal discharge of 3 months' duration. The cervix was not visible during speculum examination. Access for endometrial sampling was not possible, raising suspicion of post-conization cervical stenosis. The patient was treated with laparoscopic hysterectomy with double adnexectomy. Histologic examination showed superficial squamous cell carcinoma invading the cervix to a depth of 2.8 mm; superficial spreading squamous cell carcinoma in situ was also observed in the lower uterine segment and endometrium. The patient was free of symptoms 12 months after surgery.
CONCLUSIONS
Squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix with superficial spread to the endometrium is not included in the 2020 (fifth edition) World Health Organization Classification of Female Genital Tract Tumors or the 2018 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics cervical cancer staging system. More clinical cases are needed to identify other prognostic factors and inform clinical practice guidelines on the management of this disease.
Topics: Aged; Carcinoma in Situ; Carcinoma, Squamous Cell; Cervix Uteri; Endometrium; Female; Humans; Hysterectomy; Uterine Cervical Neoplasms
PubMed: 35590335
DOI: 10.1186/s13256-022-03433-4 -
The Veterinary Clinics of North... May 2022Pyometra is a common disease in intact bitches and queens and occurs, although less frequently,in most other female pets. The illness is generally diagnosed within 4... (Review)
Review
Pyometra is a common disease in intact bitches and queens and occurs, although less frequently,in most other female pets. The illness is generally diagnosed within 4 months after estrus, in middle-aged to older bitches and queens. Hormonal and bacterial factors are important for the disease development, and progesterone plays a key role. The diagnosis is based on case history, clinical signs, and findings on physical examination, laboratory analyses and diagnostic imaging. Pyometra is potentially life-threatening and considered a medical emergency. Surgical ovariohysterectomy is the safest and most efficient treatment, but purely pharmacologic options are possible in less severe cases.
Topics: Animals; Dog Diseases; Dogs; Endometrial Hyperplasia; Female; Hysterectomy; Progesterone; Pyometra
PubMed: 35465903
DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2022.01.004 -
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 -
Journal of the American Veterinary... May 2022To compare the outcome of canine pyometra surgeries performed at referral hospitals with those performed at community clinics (outpatient settings), and to evaluate...
OBJECTIVE
To compare the outcome of canine pyometra surgeries performed at referral hospitals with those performed at community clinics (outpatient settings), and to evaluate factors that impact outcome.
ANIMALS
133 client-owned dogs with pyometra treated with ovariohysterectomy (OHE) at 2 community clinics or 2 referral hospitals between July 1, 2017, and June 30, 2019.
PROCEDURES
A retrospective electronic medical record search was used to identify eligible cases. Data about patient demographics and clinical characteristics were collected and analyzed for factors that could have impacted outcome.
RESULTS
Eighty-three dogs were treated at referral hospitals; 50 dogs were treated at community clinics. Survival to hospital discharge for all dogs was 97% (129/133) and did not differ between treatment facility type. Dogs treated at both types of facilities were similar in age, body weight, and clinical signs. Median duration between diagnosis and OHE was significantly shorter for dogs treated at referral hospitals (0 day; range, 0 to 0.7 days) versus community clinics (1.0 day; range, 0 to 14.0 days); however, delay was not related to survival to hospital discharge. Duration of hospitalization did not impact survival to hospital discharge nor survival for at least 1 week after surgery.
CLINICAL RELEVANCE
Results indicated that OHE for pyometra in dogs has a good outcome and that, although prompt surgical treatment remains a goal, in cases where limitations to performing surgery exist, a delay until surgery or discharging patients the same day is still associated with a high degree of success.
Topics: Animals; Community Medicine; Dog Diseases; Dogs; Female; Humans; Outpatients; Ovariectomy; Pyometra; Retrospective Studies
PubMed: 35389875
DOI: 10.2460/javma.21.06.0320 -
Journal of the American Veterinary... May 2022To describe findings, determine the rate of survival to hospital discharge, and identify prognostic indicators of poor outcomes for female cats (queens) with pyometra...
OBJECTIVE
To describe findings, determine the rate of survival to hospital discharge, and identify prognostic indicators of poor outcomes for female cats (queens) with pyometra treated with ovariohysterectomy (OHE) in a nonspecialized setting.
ANIMALS
134 queens with pyometra diagnosed between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2019.
PROCEDURES
The medical records were retrospectively searched and data including patient history, clinical signs, blood work results, and outcome (survival to hospital discharge, length of hospitalization, and uterine rupture) were collected from medical records. Logistic regression models were used to assess potential predictors of outcomes.
RESULTS
Dehydration (69% [83/121]) and absolute neutrophilia (83% [52/63]) were commonly reported. The rate of survival to hospital discharge was 100% (126/126; 95% CI, 97% to 100%) for queens treated with OHE; 33% (41/126) were hospitalized ≥ 2 nights, and 4% (5/120) had uterine rupture. Queens with abnormal serum ionized calcium concentration or signs of depressed mentation had greater odds (OR of 4.64 and 2.26, respectively) of ≥ 2 nights' hospitalization. Queens with high rectal temperature, closed pyometra, or heart murmur had greater odds (OR of 35.66, 17.37, or 16.06, respectively) of uterine rupture.
CLINICAL RELEVANCE
Our findings indicated that OHE for pyometra in queens was highly successful even when performed in a nonspecialty hospital with high-quality basic supportive care, and we believe most general practitioners who offer OHE could expect to see similar outcomes. With more general-practice veterinarians comfortable treating pyometra in their clinics, OHE for pyometra will be available to more pets, ultimately saving more lives.
Topics: Animals; Female; Hospitals; Pregnancy; Prognosis; Pyometra; Retrospective Studies; Uterine Rupture
PubMed: 35290209
DOI: 10.2460/javma.20.12.0712 -
Journal of the American Veterinary... May 2022Investigate long-term complications, survival times, general health and quality of life (QoL) outcomes, and longevity in female dogs and cats (bitches and queens,...
OBJECTIVE
Investigate long-term complications, survival times, general health and quality of life (QoL) outcomes, and longevity in female dogs and cats (bitches and queens, respectively) following hospital discharge after ovariohysterectomy (OHE) for pyometra.
ANIMALS
306 pet-owner-completed surveys and corresponding medical records for 234 bitches and 72 queens treated with OHE for pyometra at the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Animal Hospital between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2019.
PROCEDURES
A telephone and online survey was conducted to gather data about pet owners' perception of pet health and QoL following OHE for pyometra, and potential associations between survey results and medical record data were evaluated. Median survival time at a given age at OHE for pyometra was calculated with the use of maximum likelihood estimation of a survival-time regression model.
RESULTS
72 of the 121 (60%) eligible owners of queens and 234 of the 390 (60%) eligible owners of bitches completed the survey. Most owners reported that at the time of the survey, their pet's health and QoL were better or the same as before pyometra. Reported health and QoL outcomes were similar for pets > 8 versus ≤ 8 years of age.
CLINICAL RELEVANCE
Our findings indicated that bitches and queens undergoing OHE for pyometra at older ages and without other severe health issues can expect to live their full life span. Veterinarians in private practice could expect similar outcomes.
Topics: Animals; Cat Diseases; Cats; Dog Diseases; Dogs; Female; Hospitals; Longevity; Patient Discharge; Pyometra; Quality of Life
PubMed: 35290207
DOI: 10.2460/javma.20.12.0714