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Chlamydia infection is the most
common sexually transmitted disease (STD) in the United States. Chlamydia
is caused by Chlamydia trachomatis
bacteria.
A chlamydia infection may cause a
puslike discharge from the penis or vagina, burning during urination, or pelvic
pain. However, many chlamydia infections exist with no symptoms.
Both in men and women, chlamydia bacteria
can infect the eyes, rectum.
In women, chlamydia bacteria can
infect the fallopian tubes (salpingitis), or several reproductive
organs (pelvic inflammatory disease, PID). A chlamydia infection that occurs in
a woman's pelvic organs may make her unable to become pregnant (infertile)
and can cause other complications if it is not treated in time.
In men, chlamydia bacteria can infect
the tubes that carry sperm (epididymitis) or produce swelling of the testicles.
An untreated infection may make a man unable to father children (infertile).
During birth, a newborn can become
infected with chlamydia while passing through the mother's infected cervix.
Chlamydia in newborns can cause an infection of the eyes and/or lungs. A lung
infection may lead to pneumonia.
Several types of tests can help detect a chlamydia infection.
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay
(ELISA, EIA). This common, rapid
test detects substances that trigger your immune system to fight the chlamydia
infection (chlamydia antigens). EIA testing is done by taking a sample of
secretions from the potentially affected area.
Direct fluorescent antibody test
(DFA). This common, rapid
test detects chlamydia antigens. DFA testing is done by taking a sample of
secretions from the potentially affected area.
Polymerase chain reaction assay
(PCR). This test detects the genetic material (DNA) of chlamydia bacteria. PCR testing is very accurate
and can be done on either a urine specimen or a sample of secretions from
the potentially affected area.
Nucleic acid hybridization tests
(DNA probe testing). Like the PCR assay,
probe testing detects chlamydia DNA. Probe testing is very accurate and can
be done by taking a sample of secretions from the potentially
affected area. DNA probe testing is more sensitive
than chlamydia culture (see below).
Chlamydia culture. A culture provides the right environment
for chlamydia bacteria to grow. This test is expensive and not commonly done.
It requires high technical skills, and obtaining results takes 5 to 7 days.
The chlamydia culture test is usually done when the number of bacteria is
very low, when child sexual abuse is suspected, or when treatment for infection
has failed.
Treatment
Chlamydia can be treated successfully
with antibiotic medications, such as tetracycline and erythromycin. For genital
infections with Chlamydia trachomatis, all sexual partners of the
infected person should also be treated.
Chlamydia Tests Results
Normal:
Found no chlamydia antigens or DNA.
If a culture is performed, no chlamydia bacteria grow in the culture. Additional
testing for other STDs may be needed to determine cause of symptoms.
Abnormal:
Chlamydia antigens or DNA are found. If a culture is performed, chlamydia
bacteria grow in the culture.
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