Chlamydia trachomatis (PCR)

Swab, 1st morning urine or ejaculate

The bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis causes an infection that can manifest in different ways depending on the serotype, including: trachoma, lymphogranuloma venereum, urethritis, cervicitis, salpingitis, pelvic inflammatory disease.

Infections with C. trachomatis, together with HPV infections, gonorrhoea and trichomoniasis, are among the most common STIs in europe.
Often, an infection with C. trachomatis can be asymptomatic or only with mild symptoms, which is why many infections go undetected and the bacteria gets spread.
C. trachomatis can be transmitted through oral, vaginal and anal sexual intercourse as the bacteria is found in the mucous membranes of the urethra, cervix, rectum, pharynx and vagina, as well as in vaginal fluid and semen (and in lower concentrations also in urine and pre-ejaculate).

Untreated chlamydia infections can lead to abdominal inflammation, inflammation of the prostate, testicles and epididymis, and infertility. In pregnant women, premature births and transmission to the newborn are possible, leading to conjunctivtis and pneumonia in newborns.

Genital chlamydial infections are the most common cause of acquired infertility in western industrialised countries.
At least one-fifth of all cases of infertility in women are caused by dissemination of chlamydia infections as they can cause tubal occlusion (blockage of the fallopian tubes) and also lead to tubal or ectopic pregnancy. In men, chlamydia infection can reduce sperm quality, inflammation of the epididymis and prostate as well as narrowing of the urethra.

In some cases, chlamydia infection can lead to the development of reactive arthritis, which can manifest itself in the form of painful joint inflammation.

If lymphogranuloma venereum (C. trachomatis serotypes L1-L3) is suspected, profile 0594 can also be requested.


Note: Urine samples from women have a lower sensitivity compared to the examination of a cervical or vaginal swab.