GENITAL CHLAMYDIA TRACHOMATIS INFECTION IN A SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTION CLINIC – A Descriptive Study of the First Semester of 2010

Abstract

Introduction: Chlamydia trachomatis genital infection (Ct) is now the most common sexually transmitted bacterial infection (STI) diagnosed in United Kingdom and in United States and its prevalence is highest in persons younger than 25 years. Asymptomatic infection is also common among both men and women.

Objectives: To assess epidemiological characteristics and prevalence of Ct in a population of patients attending the STI Clinic of Centro de Saúde da Lapa, Lisbon. Methods: Every patient attending this STI Clinic in the first six months of 2010 and tested to Ct (urine, urethral or vaginal swab) was included in our study. Data was analyzed with an exact significance level of 5%.

Results: A total of 968 patients were included (643 men and 326 women). Ct was diagnosed in 56 patients, of whom 75% were asymptomatic. The diagnosis of CT was significantly associated to being heterosexual (p=0,026). For women significant association was also found between Ct diagnosis and the presence of genital warts or having more than one sexual partner during the last six months.

Comments: These results were similar to other European studies. Although the Ct screening is recommended by STI guidelines (CDC/ IUSTI), in Portugal it is not routinely performed outside the few existing STI clinics. Knowing the serious consequences of untreated disease, implementation of regular screening in our country should be considered.