Clinical significance
Chlamydia trachomatis is an obligate intracellular bacterium responsible for infections of the genitals and eyes. Chlamydia trachomatis is the bacterial cause of the most common sexually transmitted infection in Italy: it is estimated that over 70% of infections are diagnosed in women aged 15 to 24, while in men the infection is most common between the ages of 20 and 29.
In women chlamydia causes cervicitis and urethritis, which often produce mild, non-specific symptoms; if not properly diagnosed and treated, cervical infection can spread up into the reproductive system and, in 25% of cases, lead to blocked fallopian tubes and infertility. An undiagnosed cervical infection at the end of pregnancy can infect the baby during passage through the birth canal, with a risk of conjunctivitis and pneumonia.
In men chlamydia causes about 50% of non-gonococcal urethritis, which produces mild symptoms such as burning when passing urine, painful urination and a clear, sticky discharge (the discharge from gonococcal urethritis is pus-like). If not diagnosed and treated, the infection can spread upwards to the epididymis and prostate and cause functional complications, including infertility.
Clinical indications
Suspected infection; preventive screening in young women of childbearing age and just before delivery.
Sample type
Urethral swab, cervical/vaginal swab, urine, semen
Preparation
Unless your doctor specifically requests otherwise, it is advisable not to have the test while taking antibiotics. Allow at least one week after the last dose of antibiotic. For women: stop any treatment with pessaries or vaginal suppositories at least 48 hours before, and do not use internal vaginal douches in the previous 24 hours. Avoid sexual intercourse in the previous 24 hours.