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Tuberculosis of the female reproductive tract: effect on function
R Figueroa-Damian1, I Martinez-Velazco, R Villagrana-Zesati
1Infectious Diseases Department, National Institute of Perinatology, Mexico, D.F., Mexico.
International Journal of Fertility and Menopausal Studies
|July 1, 1996
Summary
Genital tuberculosis (GTB) may be an underdiagnosed cause of female infertility. This study highlights the clinical presentation and poor reproductive outcomes in women with GTB, suggesting a higher incidence than reported.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Gynecology
Background:
- Genital tuberculosis (GTB) is a significant cause of infertility.
- Its true incidence is unknown due to diagnostic challenges, especially in developing regions.
- GTB is often secondary to a primary Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the clinical presentation and consequences of GTB.
- To assess the impact of GTB on female infertility.
- To highlight the potential underdiagnosis of GTB.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series of 25 women with GTB.
- Patients presented with infertility, uterine hemorrhage, or acute abdomen.
- Treatment involved medical and/or surgical interventions.
Main Results:
- Twenty-one women presented with infertility.
- Only five women were candidates for artificial insemination.
- Two pregnancies resulted in abortion.
Conclusions:
- Genital tuberculosis may be more prevalent than literature suggests.
- GTB could be a substantial contributor to female infertility.
- Improved diagnostic methods are needed to ascertain the true incidence of GTB.