Differential Diagnosis for One Fallopian Tube Being Thicker Than the Other
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Salpingitis: Inflammation of the fallopian tube, often due to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), can cause thickening of one tube. This condition is relatively common and can result from bacterial infections, leading to swelling and potential scarring.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Ectopic Pregnancy: Although often associated with more acute symptoms, a resolving or chronic ectopic pregnancy can cause thickening of the involved fallopian tube due to inflammation and scarring.
- Hydrosalpinx: A condition where the fallopian tube is filled with fluid, often due to a blockage near its end, can cause the tube to appear thicker on imaging studies.
- Tubal Pregnancy Residue: After an ectopic pregnancy has been treated, residual scarring and thickening of the fallopian tube can persist.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Tubal Cancer: Although rare, cancer of the fallopian tube can cause thickening of the tube and is critical to diagnose early for effective treatment.
- Pelvic Tuberculosis: A form of tuberculosis that affects the pelvic organs, including the fallopian tubes, can cause thickening and scarring, and is important not to miss due to its treatable nature with appropriate antibiotics.
Rare Diagnoses
- Congenital Anomalies: Some individuals may have congenital anomalies of the fallopian tubes, such as accessory tubes or segmental agenesis, which can result in uneven thickness.
- Endometriosis: In rare cases, endometriosis can cause significant inflammation and scarring around one fallopian tube, leading to thickening.
- Paratubal Cysts: Benign cysts that form near the fallopian tubes can sometimes cause the adjacent tube to appear thicker due to compression or inflammation.