Cystic endometrial hyperplasia and pyometra in three captive African hunting dogs (Lycaon pictus)

J Zoo Wildl Med. 2012 Mar;43(1):95-100. doi: 10.1638/2010-0222.1.

Abstract

Pyometra and cystic endometrial hyperplasia are common in domestic canids and are suspected to develop as a consequence of elevated progesterone levels. Reports of uterine pathology in exotic canids are limited, with some speculating of association with contraception. This report describes pyometra, cystic endometrial hyperplasia, and ovariohysterectomy in three African hunting dogs (Lycaon pictus). Ovarian corpora lutea were detected in two of the dogs, suggesting endogenous progesterone production. One dog had a uterine adenocarcinoma and two had ovarian granulosa cell tumors. Clinical signs included anorexia, lethargy, vulvar discharge, polyuria, polydipsia, and abdominal distention. Diagnosis was based on clinical signs, physical examination, bloodwork, radiography, and ultrasonography, with confirmation through histopathologic evaluation of tissues. Cystic endometrial hyperplasia, pyometra, and uterine neoplasia have rarely been diagnosed in exotic canids; however, they should be considered as differential diagnoses in intact bitches that present with suspected reproductive disease.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Canidae*
  • Endometrial Hyperplasia / pathology
  • Endometrial Hyperplasia / surgery
  • Endometrial Hyperplasia / veterinary*
  • Female
  • Hysterectomy / veterinary
  • Pyometra / pathology
  • Pyometra / surgery
  • Pyometra / veterinary*