Identification of the microorganisms involved in severe sepsis caused by pyometra in bitches undergoing ovariohysterectomy

Abstract

Pyometra is a common reproductive disorder that affects female dogs. It can represent a serious clinical entity and progress to severe sepsis and septic shock. The premature antibiotic therapy is crucial for a better prognosis. The aim of this study was to identify the most frequent microorganisms involved in the context of pyometra and severe sepsis in animals undergoing ovariohysterectomy, by blood and uterine secretion culture and antibiogram. The tests were conducted in 33 female dogs with pyometra. The most frequent recovered bacteria were Escherichia coli in 57.57%. Staphylococcus sp. E. coli, followed by enrofloxacin, cephalexin and the combination of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid. Uterine secretions cultures were more sensitive than blood culture to identify the bacterial (p<0.0001). The bacterial identification followed by an antibiogram allows to choose a better therapy in the presented disease in dogs.