Mycoplasma genitalium retrospective audit of Northern Territory isolates from 2022

Abstract

The Northern Territory (NT) has the highest rates of sexually transmitted infections (STI) in Australia; however, the local prevalence of Mycoplasma genitalium (M. genitalium) has not been previously determined. This study was designed to review M. genitalium detection, to determine the regional NT prevalence and macrolide resistance rates. In our study the NT background prevalence of M. genitalium is 13%, with the highest detection rates occurring in central Australia and in correctional facility inmates. Symptomatic patients attending sexual health clinics have a positivity rate of 12%, but very high macrolide resistance. The decision to screen for M. genitalium should be based on several factors, including the prevalence of the infection in the local population; the availability of effective treatments; and the potential benefits and risks of detection and therapy.

Keywords: Mycoplasma genitalium; Northern Territory; STI; infectious diseases; sexually transmitted disease.