[Pyometra without accompanying malignant uterine disease]

Twenty-two cases of non-malignant pyometra which were observed during a period of 15 years are described. 22% were recurrences. All of the women were postmenopausal with discharge and haemorrhage as the commonest symptoms. Pyrexia was rare. Pyometra cannot be excluded or diagnosed by means of gynaecological examination. In cases of suspected pyometra, thorough cervical dilatation and curettage are recommended. Antibiotics should only be administered if there is evidence of invasive infection, in the form of pyrexia, generalised malaise or altered laboratory parameters. In cases such as these, preparations which are effective for aerobic and also anaerobic bacteria should be employed. Follow-up control every six months is recommended on account of the great tendency to recur.