Abstract

PIP: Although Chlamydia trachomatis causes important diseases in both men and women, this review focuses on the genital tract disease associated with chlamydial infection in women and on neonatal chlamydial infection. 8 of the 15 serotypes of C. trachomatis are sexually transmitted agents. The unique growth cycle which distinguishes the chlamydiae from all other organisms is described and they are compared to bacteria and viruses. The prevalence and risk factors for chlamydial infections are then discussed. The symptoms, complications, prevalence, diagnosis, and treatment of male genital tract infections are outlined. Experimental and clinical evidence of the role of chlamydiae in lower genital tract diseases of women including Bartholinitis, cervicitis, endometritis, and acute urethral syndrome; in acute salpingitis; and in the Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome is presented and discussed, followed by a discussion of the incidence and prevalence, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of neonatal inclusion conjunctivitis and pneumonia due to C. trachomatis. Some possible control measures for neonatal chlamydial infections are recommended and the relative costs and benefits for populations with different incidences are evaluated. Other possible neonatal clinical manifestations and a possible role in preterm labor and delivery, low birth weight, and perinatal mortality are noted. The diagnosis of chlamydial infections by cytology, serology, and culture are discussed, and recommended therapy is outlined.