Polypoid cystitis in the bitch: diagnosis and treatment
6-year-old spayed crossbreed bitch with four episodes of E. coli urinary infection in the past year and intermittent haematuria. Ultrasound shows several polypoid projections from the cranioventral bladder wall; the trigone and urethra are normal.
What is the most appropriate course of action?
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A. Confirm by histopathology (cystoscopy or surgery), remove the polyps and treat the infection based on culture
Correct. Polypoid cystitis is a chronic inflammatory lesion associated with recurrent infections or uroliths, typical of females and the cranioventral wall. Only histology reliably differentiates it from neoplasia. Removal and infection control usually give a good prognosis.
B. Assume urothelial carcinoma and start piroxicam without biopsy
A cranioventral location in a bitch with recurrent infections suggests a benign lesion; treating it as carcinoma without confirmation deprives the bitch of curative treatment.
C. Antibiotics for 3 days at each relapse
The polyps act as a nidus that maintains infection; treating each episode alone without addressing the lesion perpetuates relapses.
D. Total cystectomy because of the risk of malignant transformation
It is a disproportionate surgery with serious sequelae; polypoid cystitis is managed by local removal of the polyps.
lightbulb Key takeaway
With recurrent urinary infections, look for the cause: uroliths, polyps, vulval abnormalities, incontinence or systemic disease. Location helps: cranioventral suggests polypoid cystitis; trigone and urethra suggest urothelial carcinoma. Always submit tissue for histopathology and culture.
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Updated: October 31, 2026 · Educational content for veterinary professionals. It does not replace current clinical guidelines or the judgement of the attending veterinarian.