Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
How C-reactive protein helps tell pyometra from cystic endometrial
By Fransson, Boel A et al.·Published in Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association·2004·Washington State University, United States·View original on PubMed →
PetCaseFinder translated the abstract of this peer-reviewed paper into plain English so pet owners can read it. We do not publish original research — every detail traces back to the citation above. How we work →
Original publication title: C-reactive protein in the differentiation of pyometra from cystic endometrial hyperplasia/mucometra in dogs.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A group of 64 female dogs showing symptoms like vaginal discharge, increased thirst, lethargy, and gastrointestinal issues were tested for a serious condition called pyometra, which is an infection of the uterus. Researchers found that a combination of blood tests, particularly looking at certain white blood cells and C-reactive protein (CRP), could help predict whether a dog had pyometra or a less severe condition called cystic endometrial hyperplasia. The tests showed a high success rate in identifying pyometra, which is crucial for timely treatment. Dogs diagnosed with pyometra often require surgery to remove the infected uterus, and early detection can lead to better outcomes.
People also search for: dog vaginal discharge · pyometra symptoms in dogs · dog increased thirst lethargy treatment
Abstract
Hematological parameters, plasma C-reactive protein (CRP), and tumor necrosis factor alpha were analyzed in 64 dogs with a presumptive diagnosis of pyometra. Final diagnosis (i.e., pyometra or cystic endometrial hyperplasia [CEH]) was determined by histopathology. As a single test, the percentage of band neutrophils had the highest sensitivity in the prediction of pyometra (sensitivity, 94%). The combination of percentage of bands and CRP had the highest sensitivity (97.7%; specificity, 75%) in predicting the presence of pyometra. The most common clinical signs noted in the study were vaginal discharge, polyuria, polydipsia, lethargy, and gastrointestinal signs. A combination of three or more of these clinical signs was significantly associated with pyometra.
Find similar cases for your pet
PetCaseFinder finds other peer-reviewed reports of pets with the same symptoms, plus a plain-English summary of what was tried across them.
Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15347619/