[Chlamydia infections in gynecology and obstetrics]

Abstract

Urogenital infections with Chlamydia trachomatis belong to the most prevalent sexual transmitted diseases worldwide. In women, Chlamydia trachomatis can cause an infection of the cervix, the urethra, the endometrium and the Fallopian tubes. As potential sequelae, tubal infertility and ectopic pregnancies are associated with urogenital infections caused by this pathogen. An infection of the cervix in pregnancy can lead to neonatal and maternal complications. Therefore, by April 1st, 1995 a cervical swab for Chlamydia trachomatis has been included in the German antenatal care guide lines. The significance of these infections in health care is in contrast to its often hardly symptomatic or asymptomatic course. New diagnostic methods facilitate the detection of the pathogen and allow a specific antibiotic therapy. The aim of this review is a presentation of the clinical significance, diagnosis and therapy of urogenital infections with Chlamydia trachomatis in obstetrics and gynaecology to contribute to the prevention of potentially severe sequelae.