Treatment of a Follicular Cyst in a Female German Shepherd Dog Using Gonadorelin

Follicular cysts represent one of the most common ovarian disorders in the dog and are responsible for such complications as prolonged estrus, reproductive bleeding, and other reproductive dysfunctions. Early diagnosis and successful treatment are essential to prevent long-term reproductive impairments. Case Presentation: A female German Shepherd dog over two years or older was presented to the clinic with the complaint of continual vaginal bleeding. On clinical examination, the animal was found to be in a continued state of estrus. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed follicular cysts, which were identified as the underlying etiology of the pathological bleeding. Treatment: The initial injection was given on the day of diagnosis (Day ۰) (D. Johnston et al. ۲۰۰۱). Based on the persistence of vaginal bleeding upon re-evaluation, a second identical dose (۵ mL IM) was administered five days later (Day ۵) (Based on our clinical judgment to optimize treatment outcome). A dose of Gonadorelin was administered via intramuscular (IM) injection. The treatment course was also well tolerated by the animal with no effect noted. Discussion: Follicular cysts result from the continuous secretion of estrogen by the ovarian follicles, which results in prolonged estrus and associated clinical manifestations. Gonadorelin is a gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog which causes release of luteinizing hormone, promoting luteinization of the cystic formation and suppression of estrogen production. Ultrasonography allowed precise diagnosis and offering of a less invasive monitoring device during treatment time. This case illustrates the efficacy of GnRH analogs as a non-surgical therapeutic regimen for canine follicular cysts. Conclusion: This report describes successful treatment of a follicular cyst in a German Shepherd dog following two intramuscular injections of Gonadorelin given five days apart. Treatment resulted in remission of clinical signs and recovery of reproductive health, demonstrating the potential of GnRH therapy for such cases.

Keywords:

Follicular Cyst , GnRH , Dog , Reproductive Disorder