Aim: Objectives of this study were to evaluate serum biochemistry and complete blood parameters in bitches with pyometra and to determine the relationship between lactate dehydrogenase and these parameters.

Materials and Methods: A total of 26 bitches with different breeds, 6-14 aged, were used in the study. The bitches with pyometra (n = 20) were diagnosed by anamnesis, clinical and ultrasonographical examination. The bitches in the control group (n = 6) were selected from >6 years old healthy animals brought to the clinic for various reasons (genital organ examination, etc.). A blood sample was taken from V. cephalica to evaluate the parameters of complete blood count and serum biochemistry from bitches in both groups.

Results: It was determined that WBC, neutrophil and monocyte values were higher (p<0.05), and RBC and lymphocyte values were lower (p<0.05) in bitches in the pyometra group than the control group. Urea, ALP and LDH concentrations were higher and albumin concentrations were lower in bitches with pyometra (p<0.05). Moreover, it was found that the results of complete blood count and serum biochemical parameters in bitches with closed cervix pyometra were more affected than bitches with open cervix pyometra. In addition, LDH concentrations were found to be significantly higher than reference values in bitches with both open and closed cervix pyometra. Strong positive correlation (p<0.05) was determined between the LDH concentrations and WBC, creatinine, ALT, AST, ALP, CK and negative correlation (p>0.05) was determined between LDH and RBC and albumin in bitches with pyometra.

Conclusion: As a result, it was found that WBC and neutrophils increased significantly in bitches with pyometra and kidney and liver functions were affected adversely. In addition, it has been determined that systemic problems were more serious in bitches with closed cervix pyometra. However, since LDH concentrations were correlated with kidney and liver enzymes, it was concluded that measuring LDH concentrations in bitches with pyometra may be useful in determining the prognosis.