European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

THE IMPACT OF GENITAL TUBERCULOSIS IN INFERTILITY: AN OVERVIEW

Uma Maheshwari Bankapalli*, Nandaraj Dubbaka and Pooja Reddy Varakantham

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Genital tuberculosis (GTB) is a major cause of infertility, particularly in tuberculosis-endemic regions. It primarily affects the fallopian tubes and endometrium, leading to tubal blockage, adhesions, and endometrial damage. GTB is often asymptomatic or presents with non-specific symptoms, making diagnosis challenging. Early identification and appropriate treatment are crucial to improving reproductive outcomes. Methods: This retrospective observational study included 93 infertile women aged 21–30 years diagnosed with GTB at a tertiary care center. Diagnosis was based on histopathology, acid-fast bacilli (AFB) staining, culture, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Data on demographics, clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, and pregnancy outcomes post-antitubercular therapy (ATT) were analyzed using SPSS version 25. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Primary infertility was present in 78.5% of cases. Common symptoms included menstrual irregularities (65.6%) and chronic pelvic pain (58.1%). PCR had the highest sensitivity (72%), while TB culture (22.6%) and ZN staining (16.1%) had lower detection rates. Post-ATT follow-up showed a pregnancy rate of 32.2%, with 19.3% conceiving naturally and 12.9% through assisted reproductive technologies. Per vaginal examination abnormalities were noted in 69.9% of cases. Discussion: GTB remains a significant but underdiagnosed cause of infertility. The disease primarily affects the reproductive years and is often asymptomatic. PCR was the most effective diagnostic tool. Despite ATT, pregnancy outcomes were suboptimal, highlighting the need for early detection and intervention. Conclusion: GTB significantly impacts female fertility. Early diagnosis, multimodal diagnostic approaches, and assisted reproductive technologies are necessary to improve pregnancy outcomes in affected women.

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