Pelvic inflammatory disease: a review of therapy.

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a serious health problem that affects the reproductive capacity and the sexual activities of women. Approximately 50,000 cases are reported annually resulting in severe pain, reduced fertility and costly health care. Diagnosis of PID requires a complex analysis of the history, a thorough physical examination and diagnostic testing. Goals of care include accurate diagnosis with particular emphasis on differential diagnosis, antibiotic therapy, close follow-up and counseling. Antibiotic therapy is directed against the pathogenic organism, either gonococcal or nongonococcal. Careful counseling and follow-up aids successful treatment and decreases the likelihood of infertility.