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Hydrosalpinx
Synonyms/Description
Fluid-filled, distended fallopian tube
Etiology
A hydrosalpinx is a dilated fallopian tube filled with fluid. A normal tube is not visible sonographically; however, when a tube becomes obstructed, it distends and fills with fluid, giving it a sausage-like appearance. Infection is a major cause of hydrosalpinx, also called pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), in which the tube fills with pus in the acute phase of the disease (pyosalpinx). In ectopic pregnancy, the tube can distend and fill with blood (hematosalpinx) and have a similar appearance to a pyosalpinx. Tubal torsion presents with acute pain and a tender, distended tube. Scarring and adhesions in the pelvis can obstruct the tubes and allow them to fill with fluid, but this is more often found in asymptomatic patients since it is not an acute process. This can also be seen in cases of severe endometriosis, or previous pelvic surgery. Rarely, tuberculosis and other infections can attack the pelvis and result in hydrosalpinx.
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