Chlamydiatrachomatis

Chlamydia trachomatis is a species of bacteria that causes the sexually transmitted infection chlamydia. It is one of the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infections globally. Chlamydia trachomatis is an obligate intracellular parasite, meaning it can only replicate inside host cells. Infection typically occurs through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, or oral sex.

Infections with Chlamydia trachomatis are often asymptomatic, especially in women, which can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment. When symptoms do occur, they can include discharge from the penis or vagina, pain during urination, and pain during sexual intercourse. In men, symptoms may include penile discharge and testicular pain. In women, untreated chlamydia can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can cause chronic pelvic pain, infertility, and ectopic pregnancy. Chlamydia can also infect the rectum, causing rectal pain, discharge, and bleeding. Neonatal conjunctivitis and pneumonia can occur in infants born to infected mothers.

Diagnosis is typically made through laboratory tests, often using nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) on urine or swab samples. Chlamydia trachomatis infections are treatable with antibiotics, most commonly azithromycin or doxycycline. Partner notification and treatment are crucial to prevent reinfection and further transmission. Public health efforts focus on screening, education, and promoting safe sexual practices.