Uterine cultures must be interpreted with caution, as a break in the technique of obtaining the culture can result in organisms being isolated which are not causing disease. To assist in this interpretation, uterine cytology is utilized. Uterine cytology is a swab of the cells lining the uterus. The presence of inflammatory cells is evaluated. The presence of different cell types determines both the type of inflammation and the length of time the infection has been present.
Uterine cytology can also detect the presence of urine contamination and fungal infections.
Uterine biopsy is the last technique to be performed. The biopsy is graded to provide an estimation of the mare s chances of conceiving and maintaining a pregnancy to term. This grading system allows the veterinarian and owner to decide if therapy can be effective in treating the disease process and if the mare s chances of delivering a live foal warrant the cost and labor of the required treatment. Based on the above tests, the appropriate treatment of the mare s infertility can be determined. A single treatment or a combination of treatments may be necessary depending on the disease process present.