Effective Treatment Options for Dog Ovarian Cysts

There are four types of ovarian cysts in dogs: follicular cysts, corpus luteum cysts, tubular epithelial cysts, and ovarian network cysts. The first two types are more common. Ovarian cysts in dogs occur when follicular epithelial cells degenerate, the connective tissue of the follicle wall proliferates and becomes altered, oocytes die, and the follicular fluid is not absorbed or increases. Corpus luteum cysts, also known as luteinized cysts, form when the epithelial cells of unovulated follicles become luteinized. Ovarian cysts are caused by a disorder in the secretion of gonadotropins and are more prevalent in older dogs. This condition can be a contributing factor to infertility.

Diagnosis of Canine Ovarian Cyst Disease

1. Dogs with ovarian cysts may exhibit frequent or continuous estrus, sometimes爬行on male dogs, a behavior known as "mounting mania." They may become emotionally agitated, behave abnormally, and even become aggressive towards their owners.

2. Elevated levels of plasma estradiol indicate an enlargement of the ovarian follicles.

3. Large ovarian cysts can form abdominal masses that can be palpated. Ovaries containing large cysts may twist.

4. Larger cysts can be detected on abdominal Xrays as areas of increased fluid density within renal retroperitoneal masses. Ultrasound in the renal retroperitoneal area may reveal localized fluidfilled dark areas (cysts).

5. It is important to differentiate this condition from polycystic kidney disease, adrenal disorders, renal cancer, ovarian cancer, and other abdominal tumors.

6. Laparotomy is necessary for a definitive diagnosis.

Prevention and Treatment of Canine Ovarian Cyst Disease

1. Most follicular cysts resolve spontaneously within a few months without treatment.

2. If a dog has a significant number of follicular cysts, treatment with human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) can be attempted to induce luteinization. A dose of 50 milliliters is administered intramuscularly, and the injection is repeated every 48 hours. If effective, the time from the previous estrus to the next estrus should be reduced to 12 days, and the animal should cease sexual activity completely within two weeks.

3. Ovariohysterectomy, a surgical procedure to remove the ovaries and uterus, can provide a definitive solution to gynecological issues. This involves spaying the dog at a veterinary clinic.