Chlamydia Trachomatis

Key Points
Bacterial infection, usually sexually transmitted
Caused by the bacteria chlamydia trachomatis
Can cause sterility/infertility if left untreated
Cutaneous symptoms include ulcers on the genitalia, swelling and redness of the groin, and vaginal or penile discharge.

Chlamydia trachomatosis is an infection caused by the bacteria chlamydia trachomatis. The infection is transmitted sexually, through skin to skin contact with associated lesions. Symptoms begin as small ulcers on the genitalia, which are painless, which heal and disappear quickly. Male patients will exhibit symptoms earlier than females, between 2-6 weeks after the initial presentation. Symptoms include swollen lymph glands in the groin area, discharge, and lower back pain in women. Other symptoms include fever, malaise, joint pain, and vomiting. Females will also experience itching and pain during urination, and increased discharge. Chronic inflammation can lead to more severe cutaneous symptoms such as abscesses and fistulas in the affected area, and left untreated can result in scarring, resulting in severe genital deformation.

Chlamydia trachomatosis infection can affect any sexually active person, male or female. Those persons involved in high-risk sexual behaviors are at a higher risk of contracting the infection.

Differential Diagnosis (Other conditions with similar appearance)
Gonorrhea
Herpes simplex virus Infection
Trichomoniasis
Urinary tract Infection

Diagnosis
Key Points
Diagnosis based on physical examination of symptoms
Biopsies, blood and other tests may be performed to confirm diagnosis and rule out similar appearing conditions

Chlamydia trachomatosis infection is generally diagnosed by a physical examination which finds a combination of specific symptoms. Diagnosis is confirmed through biopsy of swollen lymph nodes, or blood and lab tests to confirm the presence of causative bacteria.

Treatment
Should be treated by health care professionals
Goal of treatment is to cure the infection
*Antibiotics will be prescribed to treat the infection

Chlamydia trachomatosis infection should always be treated by health care professional, since when left untreated painful and serious complication can result. A course of antibiotics can completely cure the infection. Tetracycline, doxycycline, and erythromycin are the most commonly used antibiotics in treatment. Safe sex (use of latex condoms) reduces the risk of infection.