Salpingitis
Salpingitis is inflammation of one or both fallopian tubes, usually as a result of bacterial infection caused by spread from the uterus. Infection is usually a consequence of sexually transmitted disease, with the bacteria involved being either chlamydia or gonococcus. While some cases may be chronic and produce no symptoms other than mild pelvic pain, others may be severe and associated with fever and signs of peritonitis, where the lining of the abdomen is inflamed. It can be a cause of infertility, since the inflammation can result in the tubes being blocked, or ectopic pregnancy (where development of the embryo occurs outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube) since transport of the fertilised egg is impaired. Acute cases need treatment with antibiotics. In view of the fact that many cases do not have many symptoms, and can contribute to future infertility, it is suggested that screening may be of benefit. As with all cases of sexually transmitted disease, partners should be traced and treated.
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