Definition

     Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted disease caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis.

Cause

• Sexual transmission

Symptoms 

    MALE

• burning sensation during urination

• discharge from the penis

• testicular tenderness or pain

• rectal discharge or pain

    FEMALE

• vaginal discharge

• burning sensation during urination

• painful sexual intercourse

• symptoms of PID, salpingitis, perihepatitis (liver inflammation similar to hepatitis) -- see the individual diseases for symptoms

• rectal pain or discharge

Screening and Diagnostics

• DNA probe (swabs)

• Culture not usually done because expensive

• IgM immuno-fluorescence (blood test)

Treatment

• Erythromycin

• Doxycycline

• Azithromycin

• Sexual partner(s) needs to be treated

Prognosis

     Early antibiotic treatment is extremely successful and may prevent the development of long-term complications. Untreated infection, however, may lead to PID, scarring and ultimately infertility.

Complications  

• pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

• salpingitis

• infertility

• ectopic pregnancy

Prevention  

     Safe sexual practices and consistent condom use are important prevention measures to help decrease infection with chlamydia. In addition, sexually active individuals (in particular women with new or multiple sexual partners) should be periodically screened for chlamydia.