Lecture Notes: Chlamydia Trachomatis

Overview

• Chlamydia Trachomatis: A common sexually transmitted infection (STI).
• Prevalence:
  • 6.8% of sexually active females aged 14 to 19 years are infected.
  • 12% of men who have sex with men are infected.
  • Over a million cases reported annually; actual infection rates may be 5 to 7 times higher due to asymptomatic cases.

Characteristics of Chlamydia

• Type: Small gram-negative bacteria.
• Nature: Obligate intracellular parasite, acts somewhat like a virus.
• Virulence Factor: Prevents the formation of the phagolysisome by multiplying inside the host cell.

Association with Gonorrhea

• Chlamydia often co-occurs with gonorrhea.
• Both infections can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).

Pathophysiology

• Cytokine Release: Leads to inflammation and potential scar tissue formation.
• Reproductive Impact:
  • Scarring in the fallopian tubes can lead to ectopic pregnancies.
  • Chronic infections can cause infertility due to tissue damage and removal.

Symptoms

• Men:
  • Inflammation of the urethra.
  • Discharge or painful urination.
  • Proctitis in men who have sex with men.
• Women:
  • Discharge and pelvic inflammatory disease.
  • Salpingitis (inflammation of fallopian tubes).
  • Potential for unnoticed symptoms.
• Newborns: Risk of conjunctivitis from infection during birth.

Prevention and Treatment

• No Vaccine Available.
• Prevention:
  • Barrier protection (e.g., condoms).
  • Annual screening for sexually active women.
  • Routine STD checks for individuals with new sexual partners.
• Treatment:
  • Antibiotics such as doxycycline and azithromycin.
  • Antibiotic eye drops for newborns to prevent conjunctivitis.

Conclusion

• Chlamydia is a highly common STI that is often asymptomatic.
• Regular screening and effective barrier methods are crucial for prevention.
• Co-treatment for gonorrhea is common due to the frequent co-infection.