Pelvic inflammatory disease in adolescents.

Pelvic inflammatory disease is the most significant consequence of sexually transmitted infections. Statistics suggest that adolescents have a significantly higher rate of PID than does any other age group. Even asymptomatic and minimally symptomatic PID can lead to adhesions, infertility, and ectopic pregnancy, so clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion when evaluating female adolescents with lower abdominal pain. Empiric treatment, including appropriate partner notification and treatment, should be initiated early.