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Antigen-Capture Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay for Specific Detection of Mycoplasma pneumoniae
Published on: February 24, 2023
Prevalence and Epidemiology of Mycoplasma genitalium in a Pacific-Region Military Population
Timothy S Horseman1, Elena M Crecelius2, Mechelle A Miller2
1From the Departments of Clinical Investigation.
Background:
Mycoplasma genitalium is an important emerging sexually transmitted pathogen commonly causing urethritis in men, cervicitis, and pelvic inflammatory disease in women with potential of infertility. Accumulating evidence identifies the prevalence of M. genitalium similar to long recognized pathogens, Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The purpose of this study was to establish the prevalence and epidemiology of M. genitalium in a mid-Pacific military population.
Methods:
A prospective analysis was conducted from routine specimens collected as standard of care for sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing at Tripler Army Medical Center on Oahu, HI. The prevalence of M. genitalium was determined using the Aptima M. genitalium assay, a transcription-mediated amplification test. A multivariate analysis was performed to assess the associations for this infection with other STIs and demographic factors.
Results:
A total of 1876 specimens were tested in a 6-month period including 6 sample types from 1158 females and 718 males. Subject ages ranged from 18 to 76 years, with a median of 24 years (interquartile range, 21-29 years). The prevalence of M. genitalium was 8.8% overall (n = 165), 7.1% in females and 11.6% in males. Coinfection with M. genitalium occurred with another sexually-transmitted pathogen in 43 patients (18.3%), with C. trachomatis as the most common organism (n = 38).
Conclusions:
These data contribute to the evidence base for M. genitalium and STI screening in an active-duty military.
Insights
Mycoplasma genitalium is a prevalent sexually transmitted infection (STI) in a mid-Pacific military population, with higher rates in males. This study highlights the need for STI screening in active-duty personnel.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Mycoplasma genitalium is an emerging sexually transmitted pathogen.
- It causes urethritis, cervicitis, and pelvic inflammatory disease, potentially leading to infertility.
- Its prevalence is comparable to Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and epidemiology of Mycoplasma genitalium.
- To investigate this infection within a mid-Pacific military population.
Main Methods:
- Prospective analysis of routine STI testing specimens.
- Aptima M. genitalium assay used for detection.
- Multivariate analysis to assess associations with other STIs and demographics.
Main Results:
- 8.8% overall prevalence of M. genitalium (11.6% in males, 7.1% in females).
- Coinfection with other STIs occurred in 18.3% of cases, most commonly Chlamydia trachomatis.
- Study included 1876 specimens from individuals aged 18-76 years.
Conclusions:
- Data support M. genitalium screening in active-duty military personnel.
- Highlights the public health importance of this emerging STI.
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