Reproductive System Pathology
Cervicitis represents inflammation of the uterine cervix, commonly caused by infectious agents or irritants. This condition ranges from acute symptomatic presentations to chronic inflammation with potential reproductive complications. Understanding cervicitis is crucial for preventing ascending infections and preserving fertility.
🔄 Classification & Types
Acute Cervicitis
- Sudden onset, often infectious
- Marked erythema and edema
- Purulent discharge
- Commonly STI-related
Chronic Cervicitis
- Persistent inflammation
- Fibrosis and hyperplasia
- Nabothian cysts
- May be asymptomatic
🦠 Common Causes
Infectious Causes
- Chlamydia trachomatis
- Neisseria gonorrhoeae
- Trichomonas vaginalis
- Herpes simplex virus
- Mycoplasma genitalium
Non-Infectious Causes
- Chemical irritants
- Mechanical trauma
- Hormonal changes
- Allergic reactions
🎯 Clinical Presentation
| Symptom | Frequency | Clinical Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Abnormal discharge | Very common | Mucopurulent or watery |
| Postcoital bleeding | Common | Cervical friability |
| Pelvic discomfort | Variable | May indicate PID |
| Asymptomatic | 30-50% | Screening important |
🔍 Diagnosis
Essential Tests
- NAAT for chlamydia/gonorrhea
- Wet mount for trichomonas
- PCR for HSV if ulcers present
- Pelvic exam for cervical signs
Supportive Findings
- Cervical friability
- Mucopurulent discharge
- Elevated vaginal pH
- Increased WBC on microscopy
💊 Management
| Cause | First-line Treatment | Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Chlamydia | Azithromycin 1g | Doxycycline 7 days |
| Gonorrhea | Ceftriaxone 500mg | Based on local resistance |
| Trichomonas | Metronidazole 2g | Tinidazole 2g |
| HSV | Antivirals if primary | Symptomatic care |
⚠️ Complications
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Infertility from tubal damage
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Increased HIV transmission risk
- Pregnancy complications
🎯 Key Points
High-Yield Facts:
- Test for both chlamydia and gonorrhea simultaneously
- Partner treatment is essential for STI-related cases
- Asymptomatic cases are common - screen high-risk patients
- Untreated cervicitis can lead to PID and infertility
- Follow test-of-cure guidelines for persistent symptoms
📖 Abbreviations
| Abbreviation | Full Form |
|---|---|
| STI | Sexually Transmitted Infection |
| PID | Pelvic Inflammatory Disease |
| NAAT | Nucleic Acid Amplification Test |
| HSV | Herpes Simplex Virus |
| WBC | White Blood Cell |