[Alterations in Fallopian tube biopsies caused by pregnancy (author's transl)]

The clinical significance of decidual changes and inflammation in Fallopian tubes of women undergoing sterilization shortly after the delivery was assessed microscopically in 133 resected specimens. Thirteen excision specimens obtained from non pregnant patients served as controls. Foci of ectopic decidua in the mucosa were found in 14.3% of cases in the first group, whereas none was noted in the control group. An inflammatory reaction consisting of edema, hyperemia, and lymphocytic, histiocytic and occasional granulocytic infiltration was noted in 67.6% of patients ligated after delivery. No significant inflammatory reaction was demonstrated in specimens of the control group. In the post partum group the clinical findings and the gross examination of the tubes at the time of operation did not suggest any inflammatory changes. The microscopic changes observed therefore do not warrant the diagnosis of a salpingitis and are to be considered as a physiological response during pregnancy.