tubal tuberculosis

Tuberculosis of the fallopian tube is one of the most common sites of tuberculous pelvic inflammatory disease.

Clinical presentation

Many patients may be asymptomatic, with the disease being discovered during the workup for infertility.  Signs and symptoms are often vague and can include acute or chronic pain, infertility, and vaginal bleeding.

Pathology

Like pelvic tuberculosis, infection almost always results from spread from an extragenital source, usually haematogenous or less commonly via lymphatic vessels or from the peritoneal cavity.

Location

Both tubes are usually affected.

Radiographic features

Plain radiograph

May show calcification of the fallopiantubes in a small proportion of patients. Tubalcalcification can take the form of linear streaks, which liein the course of the fallopian tube or appear as faint or densetiny nodules.

Hysterosalpingography (HSG)

Multiple constrictions along the course of the Fallopian tube can also form from scarring and give rise to ‘‘beaded’’ appearance to the tubes (usually seen on an HSG). Tubal occlusion in tuberculosis is considered a less common sign and occurs most commonly in the region of isthmus and ampulla .

MRI

Tuberculous salpingitis without blockage can appear as a thick walled tortuous structure with vivid enhancement.

Differential diagnosis

On a hysterosalpingogram consider:

See also

Siehe auch: