Section: Veterinary Care In-depth
Diagnosis In-depth
History. Your veterinarian will ask specific questions about your pet's appetite, activity level and attitude. Animals with pyometra are often depressed and lethargic. They may vomit or have diarrhea and often show no interest in food.
Because of the secondary effects on the kidneys, pyometra can also cause increased drinking and urination. So, your veterinarian may ask about any changes in your pet's drinking or urination habits. You may also be asked if you have noticed any vaginal discharge from your pet. Open pyometras produce a pus-like vaginal discharge. Closed pyometras do not drain pus from the vagina.
Physical exam. Your veterinarian will perform a complete physical exam. This will include palpation of your pet's abdomen for an enlarged uterus and examination of your pet's vagina for discharge, tumors, or other abnormalities. Your veterinarian will also take your dog's temperature to check for a fever.
Radiographs (X-rays). X-rays are taken of your pet's abdomen to identify an enlarged, fluid-filled uterus. This finding, taken with your pet's other signs, can suggest a diagnosis of pyometra.
Ultrasound. Abdominal ultrasound is another way to identify an enlarged, fluid filled uterus and to rule out an early pregnancy.
Blood and urine tests. Blood tests are submitted to evaluate the white blood cell count, which is usually elevated with an infection. The number of red blood cells is checked to look for anemia.
The function of the kidneys is evaluated through testing the blood as well as the urine. The urine is also tested for the presence of bacterial infection. The levels of electrolytes in the body are checked to determine the patient's hydration status and to help guide the type of fluid therapy.
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