Rare TB Infections: Endometrial Tuberculosis & Genital Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is a life threatening illness that, for the most part, is not commonly found in the United States. For some adults, however, the complications of tuberculosis can lead to lifelong health risks and even the development of secondary health complications. For women in particular, the development of tuberculosis can lead to complications involving infertility.

Tuberculosis of the genitourinary tract is rare but can become a secondary complication in women who are diagnosed with TB of the lungs. Affecting the endometrial lining, women with tuberculosis may become infertile and, following menopause, may experience abnormal vaginal bleeding. If you are experiencing these gynecological health complications, be certain to ask your physician about the potential implications of tuberculosis especially if you have been exposed to TB in the past.

Genital tuberculosis and endometrial tuberculosis impact fertility in 60 to 70 percent of women who are diagnosed with the infection. Unfortunately, it may be many years after the initial TB infection before fertility complications become a concern and, in many cases, women believe the TB infection was resolved and not of concern any longer. However, during reproductive years, any fertility complications should be assessed to determine if TB is of issue. For women in menopause, if you experience postmenopausal bleeding, it will be prudent to also investigate the possibility of a secondary TB infection as well.

For most women, when confirmed with genital TB or endometrial TB, the recommended treatment involves six months of therapy including the use of pyrazinamide during the first two months. While surgical intervention can resolve the infection, it is usually only performed on women who are postmenopausal as surgery requires total abdominal hysterectomy. Even still, anti-TB therapy will need to be initiated so as to negate any risk for additional infections. Because TB can affect joints and other bodily systems, controlling the infection will be vitally important.