The sexually transmitted diseases gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia are the most common causes of salpingitis. Rarely, salpingitis occurs in young girls and adolescents as a result of tuberculosis. Acute salpingitis occurs suddenly and produces severe abdominal pain, a purulent vaginal discharge, fever, and, occasionally, vomiting. Chronic salpingitis may occur after treatment for the acute form of the disease. With chronic salpingitis, there may be a dull abdominal ache, irregular and painful periods, and pain while having sexual intercourse.
Many women also feel vaguely ill, with backache, fatigue, and weight loss.
Immediate treatment with antibiotics cures infection and may prevent possible sterility. Severe cases may need hospitalization. Chronic salpingitis is difficult to treat because the fallopian tubes may become scarred and blocked, resulting in infertility. A long course of antibiotics is usually prescribed. The patient may also be advised to abstain from sexual intercourse for several weeks.