Narrative review reveals that persistent follicular cysts induce abnormal estrus and pyometra in bitches, highlighting hormonal therapy and ovariohysterectomy as key treatments.
Key Points
To review the clinical characteristics, diagnostic difficulties, associated complications, and management strategies for follicular cysts in female dogs.
Synthesized clinical literature on canine ovarian affections, focusing on cystic ovarian degeneration and hormonal dysregulation.
Evaluated medical management with GnRH or hCG alongside surgical intervention via ovariohysterectomy.
Follicular cysts act as hormonally active structures causing irregular estrus signs and frequently go undiagnosed due to owner unawareness and diagnostic limitations.
Chronic cyst presence markedly elevates the risk of life-threatening pyometra.
Hormonal therapy with GnRH or hCG serves as initial medical treatment, while ovariohysterectomy offers a definitive cure for refractory cases or concurrent uterine disease.