The uterine appendages (or adnexa of uterus) are the structures most closely related structurally and functionally to the uterus.

Terminology

They can be defined in slightly different ways:

Clinical significance

The term "adnexitis" is sometimes used to describe an inflammation of the uterine appendages (adnexa). In this context, it replaces the terms oophoritis and salpingitis. The term adnexal mass is sometimes used when the location of a uterine mass is not yet more precisely known. 63% of ectopic pregnancies present with an adnexal mass. Depending on the size of the mass, it could be a medical emergency. The term "adnexectomy" in gynaecology is often used for salpingo-oophorectomy (removal of both: fallopian tubes and ovaries).

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