Endometritis (inflammation of the uterus)

Pelvis | Urology | Endometritis (inflammation of the uterus) (Disease)


Description

Endometritis refers to inflammation of the endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus. Pathologists have traditionally classified endometritis as either acute or chronic: acute endometritis is characterized by the presence of microabscesses or neutrophils within the endometrial glands, while chronic endometritis is distinguished by variable numbers of plasma cells within the endometrial stroma. The most common cause of endometritis is infection.

Common symptoms of endometritis include vaginal discharge, fever, chills, lower abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and pain in the lower back.

Causes and Risk factors

A woman with endometritis has inflammation of the endometrium, usually due to a bacterial infection. The bacteria enter the uterus from the vagina. The endometrium is the layer of cells that line the inside of the uterus. Endometritis is most common after delivery of an infant. Endometritis occurs in about 20 percent of women who undergo a Cesarean section and about 2 percent who deliver vaginally.

Acute Endometritis is characterized by infection. The organisms isolated are most often polymicrobial. The most common causes of infection are believed to be because of compromised abortions, delivery, medical instrumentation, and retention of placental fragments.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Chronic Endometritis is characterized by the presence of plasma cells in the stroma. Lymphocytes, eosinophils, and even lymphoid follicles may be seen, but in the absence of plasma cells, are not enough to warrant a histologic diagnosis. Treatment is usually with broad-spectrum antibiotics.

It may be seen in up to 10% of all endometrial biopsies performed for irregular bleeding. The most common organisms are Chlamydia trachomatis (chlamydia), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (gonorrhea), Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B Streptococcus), Mycoplasma hominis, tuberculosis, and various viruses. ...