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Optimized PCR-based Detection of Mycoplasma
06:01

Optimized PCR-based Detection of Mycoplasma

Published on: June 20, 2011

Mycoplasma genitalium in the cervices of Japanese women

M Uno1, T Deguchi, H Komeda

  • 1Department of Urology, Gifu University School of Medicine, Japan.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases
|May 1, 1997
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Mycoplasma genitalium is a cause of genital infections in women. This study found it in Japanese women with cervicitis or adnexitis, but not in asymptomatic pregnant women.

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive Health
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Mycoplasma genitalium is a known cause of nongonococcal urethritis in men.
  • It is also implicated in genital infections in women, with prevalence data lacking for Japanese populations.
  • Previous detection in UK and Danish STD clinics highlights its relevance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of Mycoplasma genitalium in Japanese women.
  • Specifically focusing on women with cervicitis or adnexitis, and comparing this to asymptomatic pregnant women.

Main Methods:

  • Recruited 200 women from obstetric and gynecologic clinics.
  • Collected cervical swab specimens for Mycoplasma genitalium detection.
  • Utilized a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based assay for pathogen identification.

Main Results:

  • Mycoplasma genitalium was detected in 7.8% of women with cervicitis and 5.7% with adnexitis.
  • After excluding Chlamydia co-infections, prevalence was 8.8% for cervicitis and 4.1% for adnexitis.
  • No Mycoplasma genitalium was detected in 80 asymptomatic pregnant women.

Conclusions:

  • Mycoplasma genitalium prevalence was significantly higher in Japanese women with Chlamydia-negative cervicitis or adnexitis compared to asymptomatic pregnant women.
  • These findings suggest Mycoplasma genitalium may contribute to a subset of Chlamydia-negative genital infections.
  • Further research into its pathogenic role in specific gynecological conditions is warranted.

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