Experimental salpingitis in rabbits provoked by Chlamydia trachomatis.

Experimental salpingitis was studied by the introduction of Chlamydia trachomatis, immunotype D, directly into the oviducts of New Zealand White rabbits. Some rabbits were rechallenged with immunotype F to elicit a second infection. Both experiments produced self-limited acute salpingitis. Light microscopy (LM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed an extensive polymorphonuclear leukocytic infiltration in the submucosa and mucosa. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed various alterations of the endosalpingeal surface, including deciliation and flattening of the epithelial cells. These morphologic changes were more pronounced following rechallenge. High and long-lasting serum antibody titers were observed in those rabbits receiving intratubal inoculation of live infectious organisms; no response was evident when inactivated organisms were used. These results indicate that the rabbit is useful in the study of the effects of infection on oviductal function.