Final answer:
Pelvic inflammatory disease involves the spread of sexually transmitted bacteria, primarily Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis, leading to infection of the female reproductive organs with possible severe long-term consequences like infertility.
Step-by-step explanation:
Pathogenesis in pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) typically involves the spread of infection from the vagina to various parts of the female reproductive system such as the cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. The most common pathogens causing PID are the sexually transmitted bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis. One of the most serious forms of PID is salpingitis, which is the inflammation of the fallopian tubes and can result in complications like infertility and an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy. PID may present with symptoms such as lower abdominal pain, vaginal discharge, fever, and painful urination; however, some women may be asymptomatic. If PID is left untreated, it can lead to severe long-term health consequences, including chronic pelvic pain and infertility due to scarring in the fallopian tubes.