Chlamydia trachomatis: a frequently overlooked public health menace

Genital Chlamydia trachomatis infections affect 3-4 million Americans each year and are considered to be the most prevalent of all sexually transmitted diseases in the United States. Complications arising from chlamydial infections include scarring of the fallopian tubes, leading to ectopic pregnancy and infertility. Because a significant proportion of chlamydial infections are asymptomatic, this disease is frequently overlooked. Recent developments in low cost, rapid, antigen-detection assays have made widescale screening programs possible. This article reviews clinical and epidemiological aspects of chlamydial infections and discusses control strategies.