Chlamydia trachomatis and clinical genital infections: a general review

Genital infections caused by Chlamydia trachomatis (immunotypes D to K) are briefly reviewed. Urethritis is not only the most important chlamydial infection in men, but is also the most common sexually transmitted disease. The complication of this form of nongonococcal or postgonococcal urethritis include prostatitis, epididymitis and arthritis. Urethritis and cervicitis are the primary infections in women, and may lead to salpingitis, peritonitis or perihepatitis. Chlamydial infection is transmitted to the infant at birth, causing conjunctivitis or pneumonia. The diagnosis and treatment of genital chlamydial infections are briefly reviewed. Finally, some general recommendations on genital chlamydial infections are presented.