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Salpingitis

Salpingitis is inflammation of the fallopian tubes. The fallopian tubes connect the uterus
in the middle to the ovaries, one on each side. During ovulation, the released egg (ovum) from the ovary enters the fallopian tube and is swept along by cilia (tiny hairy cells)
towards the uterus. Almost all cases are caused by bacterial infection, including sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhoea and chlamydia. The inflammation prompts extra fluid secretion or even pus to collect inside the fallopian tube leading to a condition called Hydrosalpinx. Infection of one tube normally leads to infection of the other, since the bacteria migrates via the nearby lymph vessels.

Salpingitis is one of the most common causes of female infertility.
Without prompt treatment, the infection may permanently damage the fallopian tube
so that the eggs released each menstrual cycle can't meet up with sperm. Treatment
options include antibiotics.

Causes

Often salpingitis is caused by a bacterial or viral infection that rises from the vagina,
cervix, or uterus to the fallopian tubes.

Possible causes of salpingitis include:

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), or widespread infection in the organs of the pelvis

• Sexually transmitted diseases, often gonorrhoea or Chlamydia infection

• Medical procedures, such as laparoscopy, insertion of an Intra-Uterine Disease
  (IUD), biopsy of the lining of the uterus, or a dilatation and curettage (D&C)

• Childbirth, miscarriage, or abortion

• Bacteria that are normally found in the vagina

Course

Salpingitis is usually categorised as either acute or chronic.

In acute salpingitis, the fallopian tubes become red and swollen, and secrete extra fluid
so that the inner walls of the tubes often stick together. The tubes may also stick to
nearby structures such as the intestines. Sometimes, a fallopian tube may fill and bloat
with pus. In rare cases, the tube ruptures and causes a dangerous infection of the abdominal cavity (peritonitis).

Chronic salpingitis usually follows an acute attack. The infection is milder, longer lasting
and may not produce many noticeable symptoms.

Symptoms

Symptoms of salpingitis vary, depending on the cause and severity.
They may include:

• Heavy, foul-smelling vaginal discharge
• Abdominal distress, which is often dull or mild, but may become severe
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea
• Abnormal menstrual bleeding or spotting
• Urethritis, or swelling of the urethra, which causes painful urination
• Fever, chills, body aches and back pain that spreads down the legs

Treatment

Treatment depends on the severity of the condition, but may include antibiotics for the infection, hospitalisation with intravenous fluids and antibiotics. Surgery may be indicated
if the condition does not respond well to the drug treatment.