Sonographic Signs of Hydrosalpinx, Pyosalpinx, and Tubo-Ovarian Abscess

Adnexal cystic mass with incomplete septations and 'beads-on-a-string' sign suggests chronic hydrosalpinx; pyosalpinx and tubo-ovarian abscess appear more complex with debris and thick walls. Most common cause: pelvic inflammatory disease.

• Teaches sonographic differentiation: hydrosalpinx is thin-walled, anechoic, tubular with incomplete septations, while tubo-ovarian abscess is a complex mass with thick walls and internal debris.
• Most common cause of hydrosalpinx is pelvic inflammatory disease; other etiologies include endometriosis, prior surgery, and adhesions.
• Based on a single radiology lecture; not a systematic review but useful for trainees and sonographers learning pelvic ultrasound.

RadPigeon summaries are original and for information only. They are not clinical advice.