salpingitis

Tubal inflammation

Salpingitis is defined as any generic inflammatory process that affects the fallopian tubes (or salpingi); when the inflammation extends to the ovaries, one speaks, more correctly, of adnexa. There are several sub-categories of salpingitis but, generally, they are all caused by bacteria that nest at the level of the uterus, passing through the vagina: in particular, the germs that trigger the morbid process are staphylococci, streptococci, tubercle bacilli and the gonococcus.

Classification

Salpingites are classified into acute and chronic phlogoses: acute ones can be simple or purulent, while among chronic salpingitis we can remember atrophic, hypertrophic, non-specific granulomatous salpingitis and knotty isthmic.

Acute salpingitis of a simple type (also called "catarrhal") causes a modification of the structure of the tubes, which appear soft, elastic and of a pasty consistency. Acute purulent salpingitis, on the other hand, causes an enlargement of the tubes, which increases as you approach the ampullary area (area in which fertilization takes place). When the volume of the tube increases uniformly, we speak of chronic hypertrophic salpingitis ; in case the tuba appears rigid and thin, it is probably a chronic atrophic salpingitis .

Particular attention must be paid to histopathic isthmic salpingitis : it is estimated that 20% of the occlusions of the tubes of the intramural tract are caused by this particular salpingitis, often associated with infertility.

Symptoms

To learn more: Symptoms Salpingitis

In general, acute salpingitis occurs in the immediate post-menstrual period, with pain (at the level of the lower abdomen) which tends to increase progressively. The pains are often associated with nausea and vomiting (in particular when salpingitis is caused by pathogenic microorganisms), fever, vaginal discharge accompanied by itching, and irregular and unexpected menstrual bleeding.

Although abdominal pain is only perceived on one side, it does not mean that only one tuba is involved, since both salpingi can be compromised by infection.

In severe cases, salpingitis may develop into peritonitis.

Acute salpingitis, if not properly treated, could become chronic ( chronic salpingitis ): at the level of the tubes, adhesions and scars could form, associated with menstrual irregularity, pain and infertility. Contrary to what one might think, the chronic form of salpingitis is the most dangerous: so much so that it is one of the main causes that cause sterility, since the permanent alteration to the tubas could prevent fertilization.

The symptomatology derived from salpingitis can also affect the intercourse, causing pain and discomfort in the sexual act due to the adhesions that are established between the structures near the tubes and the tubes themselves.

Causes of salpingitis

Voluntary abortion and puerperal sepsis could promote the propagation of germs from the vagina to the cervix and to the tubes, causing very painful acute salpingitis. Even the insertion of objects inside the vaginal cavity could cause salpingitis: in fact, it has been shown that the habit of not often changing the internal swab - used during menstruation - as well as the use of the contraceptive spiral, could favor the entry of bacteria and procure infections. The aforementioned tubercle bacilli tend to spread bloodily, following urinary or pulmonary infections: tubercular sepsis is also reflected in the tubes and the ovary, creating salpingitis.

Diagnosis and therapy

Salpingitis, therefore, must not be underestimated: a timely gynecological intervention can certainly diminish the consequences. The diagnosis is carried out by blood analysis, pelvic ultrasound, removal of tissue at the level of the cervix and biopsy of vaginal tissue to recognize the bacterium that caused salpingitis. In the most serious cases, the patient undergoes laparoscopy for a thorough abdominal diagnosis.

The treatments must be directed against the bacteria which, first of all, gave rise to the infection; generally, the doctor prescribes antibiotic therapy for the partner as well, since salpingitis is one of the sexually transmitted diseases.

If the antibiotic therapy does not show positive results, the patient will have to undergo a surgical procedure: following the healing of salpingitis, the restoration of the functions of the ovary is guaranteed.

To learn more: Salpingitis Treatment Medicines »

Summary