The pathology of female genital tuberculosis. A 31-year study of 1436 cases

The pathology of 1436 cases of female genital tuberculosis (FGTB) observed from 1946 to 1977 is reviewed. The frequency of FGTB was highest in 1956, when it represented 5.5% of all gynecologic pathology specimens. The incidence declined in 1964 as a result of a nationwide antituberculosis campaign, falling to 0.27% in 1977. Sixty-six percent of the patients were 25-35 years of age, and 11% were postmenopausal. All patients presented with either primary (94%) or secondary (6%) infertility. The percentages of involvement of the different parts of the genital tract were: fallopian tubes 100%, endometrium 79%, cervix 24%, vulva and vagina 0.07%, and ovaries 11%. The clinicopathologic and diagnostic criteria of FGTB in the different regions are described, and special attention is paid to the effects of specific treatment on the tuberculous lesion.