Hydrosalpinx and Pyosalpinx: Reproductive Abnormalities of Oviduct

Hydrosalpinx and pyosalpinx are reproductive pathological conditions affecting the oviduct (fallopian tube) in female animals.

Hydrosalpinx refers to the accumulation of a clear, serous fluid within the oviduct due to blockage, often caused by chronic inflammation or infection. In contrast, pyosalpinx is characterized by the presence of pus within the oviduct, typically resulting from a severe bacterial infection.

Hydrosalpinx

Hydrosalpinx is the local or general enlargement of the oviduct. It manifests itself in the form of enlarged segments of varying length.

Local enlargements may resemble ovaries in size. When the entire oviduct is involved, it appears as a conglomerate of a fluctuating tube.

The width of the enlarged oviduct varies from case to case and may reach 2 cm. in diameter.

Impossible to pathologically differentiate serosalpinx, pyosalpinx and hemosalpinx by clinical examination. Adhesions may be present between the loops of the enlarged oviducts.

Pyosalpinx

Pyosalpinx follows severe uterine infection and is less commonly reported than hydrosalpinx. It associated with severe adhesions of the mesosalphinx and mesovarium.

May also follow:

• Removal of retained corpus luteum
• Injection of large doses of estrogen