Pelvic inflammatory disease.

BACKGROUND: Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a treatable condition with serious long term sequelae. The recognition and diagnosis of PID can be challenging due to the wide spectrum of disease and clinical presentation. OBJECTIVE: This article discusses the presentation, aetiology, diagnosis, management, and prevention of PID. DISCUSSION: A high index of suspicion and a low threshold for treatment for women at risk of PID may help decrease the burden of serious associated morbidity. Screening for Chlamydia in young sexually active women may reduce the incidence of PID. (author abstract)