Reproductive failure associated with cystic rete ovarii in guinea pigs

Cystic ovaries were found at necropsy in 54 of 71 (76%) female guinea pigs between 18 and 60 months of age. Histologic appearance and location of the cysts within the ovary were consistent with cystic rete ovarii. Microscopic appearance of the large ovarian cysts suggested reproductive performance in these guinea pigs should be compromised. Breeding records indicated that fertility was markedly reduced in affected females over fifteen months of age. Cystic endometrial hyperplasia, mucometra, endometritis in appropriate placental tissue, or fibroleiomyomas were seen in 21 of 54 (39%) guinea pigs with cystic ovaries, but in only one of 17 (6%) guinea pigs without cystic ovaries.