PART IV. 



DISEASES OF THE REPRODUCTIVE ORGANS. 



General Remarks. — ^The comprehensive consideration of 

 the diseases of the reproductive organs is not within the 

 scope of a work of this kind. There are now available several 

 works which include these diseases and their treatment. 

 The diseases of the reproductive organs are usually studied 

 in courses on obstetrics and most books on this subject 

 include them. On account of the importance of sterility in 

 breeding animals, especially cattle, many veterinarians in 

 districts where breeding is carried on extensively make it a 

 specialty. Obviously persons so engaged should consult 

 special works. 



PUERPERAL SEPTICEMIA. 



Definition. — ^A septicemia which comes from infected 

 wounds in the birth passages. 



Occurrence. — ^This form of septicemia, which follows par- 

 turition, is most common in cows, although it occurs occa- 

 sionally in mares due to an infected wound (tears) in the 

 vulva, vagina or uterus. 



Etiology. — ^The causes are usually streptococci or the colon 

 bacillus. The infection is carried into the vagina or uterus 

 with the hands, instruments, ropes, etc., used by the obstet- 

 rician in attempting delivery. The result of the infection 

 is usually an ulcerous or croupo-diphtheritic inflammation 

 of the uterus and vagina, with which is usually associated 

 phlegmon. A metritis and perimetritis may at times develop 

 and also a peritonitis. Besides the local conditions noted we 

 have the general changes due to septicemia and pyemia, such 



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