Clinical Pathology: Microbiology

Chlamydia trachomatis is the most prevalent etiologic agent causing sexually transmitted infections in the United States, followed by Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

• The most serious sequelae resulting from untreated Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae occur among women in the form of pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy, infertility, and chronic pelvic pain.

• Despite the decline of gonorrhea and syphilis in the United States, the prevalence of these sexually transmitted infections is increasing among men who have sex with men.

• Lymphogranuloma venereum is a systemic infection caused by invasive strains of Chlamydia trachomatis serovars L1, L2, and L3.

• Dual therapy of (ceftriaxone or cefixime) plus (azithromycin or doxycycline) for confirmed gonorrhea infection in adults and adolescents is recommended to also provide Chlamydia trachomatis coverage.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Sexually transmitted diseases treatment guidelines, 2010. MMWR. 2010;59(No. RR-12).

 
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