Newer methods for the detection of Chlamydia trachomatis in genital specimen

Conventional culture isolation methods for detecting Chlamydia trachomatis infections are laborious, expensive, technically demanding and not widely available. Recently, non-culture methods which detect chlamydial antigens have been introduced. These methods utilise immunofluorescence (IF), enzyme immunoassay (EIA) or DNA hybridisation techniques. DNA hybridisation techniques are presently, still experimental. IF and EIA tests are widely available and are suitable alternatives to culture isolation for laboratories who wish to provide a chlamydia-service. The sensitivities and specificities, and advantages and disadvantages of these systems are discussed.