Ultrasonographic diagnosis of pyometra in bitches

Abstract

A B-mode ultrasonography (SCANNER 450 (5MHz), Pie Medical, Netherlands) was used either alone or associated with laboratorial and radiographic examinations in 33 bitches with clinical diagnosis of pyometra. The increased uterus appeared as a well defined tubular structure with diameter ranging from 0.5 up to 4.0 cm. The uterine lumen was less echoic than the wall, with evident echoic shinings. There was an accordance between the increasing in the viscosity of the vaginal secretion and the echoigenicity. The ultrasonographic diagnosis was possible in 31 bitches (94%) confirmed by laparotomy and autopsy. The B-mode ultrasonography can be used in the diagnosis of bitches with pyometra.