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Unsuspected gonococcal infection in female patients
The British Journal of Venereal Diseases
|October 1, 1978
Summary
A study found that 10.2% of women in reproductive age attending gynecology clinics had gonococcal infections. Many infected patients were asymptomatic, highlighting the need for effective screening for Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Gonococcal infections pose a significant public health challenge.
- Asymptomatic infections are common, complicating diagnosis and control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of Neisseria gonorrhoeae in women attending obstetric and gynaecological outpatient departments.
- To assess the proportion of asymptomatic infections.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 410 women in their reproductive phase was studied.
- Endocervical specimens were collected and cultured using Chacko-Nair egg-enriched media.
Main Results:
- Neisseria gonorrhoeae was detected in 42 (10.2%) of the patients.
- Among infected patients, 40.5% were asymptomatic.
Conclusions:
- A notable percentage of women attending gynaecological services harbor Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
- The high rate of asymptomatic infections underscores the importance of routine screening for gonococcal infections in this population.