Ovarian Remnant Syndrome - A Diagnostic Dilemma

Abstract

Ovarian remnant syndrome is a well-recognized complication of surgical sterilization in dogs and cats. It is characterized by a return of estrus behavior months to years after sterilization. Clinical signs vary widely and may include estrus behavior, vulvar discharge or swelling and attractiveness to males, as well as mammary development and lactation. In some animals, the syndrome is only recognized after the appearance of secondary diseases, such as persistent vaginitis, pyometra and reproductive neoplasia. Differential diagnoses of ovarian remnant syndrome include uterine stump pyometra, exogenous estrogen exposure, vaginitis, urinary tract infections and neoplasia. Suspicion of ovarian remnant syndrome based on clinical signs can be confirmed by several approaches, including vaginal cytologic evaluation, vaginoscopy, hormonal assay, ultrasonographic examination and exploratory laparotomy or laparoscopy. [...]