Canine Urosepsis
Urosepsis is an infection of the blood that results from unprocessed urinary matter backing up into the bloodstream. This typically occurs when a ureter becomes blocked and the body is no longer able to remove waste. In dogs, this condition frequently results from a bacterial urinary tract infection that is not promptly treated.
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Pyelonephritis
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Pyelonephritis is another name for an infection of the upper urinary tract. It describes an infection that comes from a bacterial colony in the ureter. This type of infection does not generally occur in animals with a normally functioning urinary system. The presence of this type of infection is often symptomatic of larger issues, including reduced blood supply to the kidneys, dysfunction of the flap valves or ureter obstruction. If left untreated and/or obstruction has occurred, this bacterial infection can enter the blood and result in the form of septicemia known as urosepsis.
Bacterial Urosepsis
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Septicemia is the shedding of bacteria into the blood. When urosepsis occurs, bacteria from the kidneys and ureters are forced into the bloodstream. The most common bacteria involved in urinary tract infections that enter the blood are E. coli and staphylococcus. Other bacteria that may be involved typically ascend from the lower urinary tract and include proteus, streptococcus, klebsiella, Enterobacter and pseudomonas.
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Effects
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After the bacteria enters the bloodstream, the cardiovascular system is immediately compromised. The effects the bacteria have on this system often result in septic shock if left untreated. All other organ systems nourished by the infected blood become susceptible to infection as the result of continued exposure.
Symptoms
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Dogs may be asymptomatic. Look for symptoms that include a general depression or lethargy, a sudden fever and heartbeat irregularities. When the dog enters septic shock, hypothermia and low blood pressure may become apparent. Affected dogs typically urinate less often. If the condition is allowed to progress, dogs may vomit, have loose and bloody stools and refuse to eat.
Diagnosis
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Dogs that are showing symptoms of urosepsis should see a veterinarian immediately. Stool and urine samples, as well as a complete blood culture, will likely be ordered to confirm the presence of blood poisoning and to determine the severity of the dog's condition. Blood cultures will also be useful in determining what bacteria are present in the bloodstream and causing the medical problem.
Treatment
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Treatment is largely dependent on the dog's condition, the severity of the infection and the specific causes. If a blockage is seen in the ureters, the veterinarian may opt for surgical removal to restore kidney function. A dog in shock will usually receive intravenous fluids. Appropriate antibiotics will be given for the infection. Some veterinarians may opt to use corticosteroids and anti-inflammatory drugs, but the safety and effectiveness of these treatments are still widely debated.
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References
- Photo Credit dog image by Mat Hayward from Fotolia.com
