SEPTIC METRITIS. 549 



ratus. AVhen the infection extends by contiguity of tissue to the 

 peritoneal cavity the immediate causes of death are infection and in- 

 toxication. In cases where the infection remains localised within the 

 uterus the animal is poisoned by the absorption of toxins through the 

 uterine mucous membrane. 



The condition may prove fatal in from four to six days in the 

 cow, but in a shorter period in the goat, ewe, and bitch. 



Lesions. The uterus is excessively fragile, and can be torn at will. 

 The mucous membrane in which the micro-organisms more particu- 

 larly develop appears necrosed in places. Large areas are sloughing 

 or ulcerated. 



The vessels are thrombosed, and extensive portions of the organ 

 may be affected by true capillary phlebitis. 



The lymphatics are dilated and distended with pus in animals 

 which have resisted for some days. 



If there is peritonitis, the entire floor of the abdominal cavity is 

 affected, and sometimes the peritonitis is generalised. 



The lesions in the other tissues and viscera are similar to those 

 found in septicaemia and in general intoxication, such as injection 

 of the capillary system, and interstitial extravasations of blood in the 

 pleura, pericardium and other tissues. 



Diagnosis. The diagnosis of septic metritis is not very difficult, 

 though something more is required than simple observation of ex- 

 ternal signs. From the clinical standpoint it is of no great import- 

 ance to distinguish between the various forms or to determine the 

 responsibility of micro-organisms for the infection. In every case the 

 practitioner must utilise all the means at his disposal. 



Prognosis. The prognosis is extremely grave, and death almost 

 invariably occurs w^hen treatment is not early undertaken. 



Treatment. Treatment should be prompt and energetic. Infection 

 of the genital organs being the cause of the symptoms, it is against 

 this that remedies should be directed. The parts should, first be 

 thoroughly washed out with boiled water at the body temperature. 

 A stiff drainage tube about 6 feet in length is passed to the base of 

 the uterus and connected at its free end with a reservoir of liquid, 

 which can be raised so as to obtain sufficient pressure. During this 

 operation the animals should be placed with the front limbs higher 

 than the hind. 



AYhen the liquid injected returns perfectly clear, antiseptics may 

 be employed. Strong solutions containing mercury, carbolic acid, 

 lysol or creolin should be avoided, partly because of their toxic 

 action, but principally because they cause irritation and violent 

 expulsive efforts. 



