What is Chlamydia? Chlamydia is an infection caused by an intracellular parasite – Chlamydia trachomatis (Chlamydia trachomatis; causes a sexually transmitted disease), Chlamydia psittaci (Chlamidia psittaci; causes zoonotic chlamydia affecting multiple organs), Chlamydia pneumoniae (Chlamidia pneumoniae; infects the respiratory tract). Chlamydia trachomatis affects a person most massively by causing a sexually transmitted infection, which, although it is often asymptomatic, can lead to complications that can eventually lead to sterility and other serious problems. Unfortunately, there is no quick test that can be used at home to detect chlamydia, and the symptoms that chlamydia causes are not considered evidence of infection. Examining a swab from the urethra, cervix, or vagina or a urine test can determine whether a person has the infection and needs treatment. Chlamydia trachomatis infection can only be correctly diagnosed in a clinical setting using specific laboratory tests. Knowing the symptoms of the infection can be helpful, however there is considerable overlap between them and the complaints of other conditions. Also, many people do not show symptoms of chlamydial infection. Only 5-30% of women and 10% of men experience symptoms from the infection. What laboratory tests are prescribed when chlamydia is suspected? There are several different tests to detect the presence of Chlamydia trachomatis, the bacteria that causes the sexually transmitted disease. These tests are performed when symptoms of the infection are present or as a routine screening in sexually active people. The most commonly used tests are the Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT). To carry out the research, it is necessary to take: A urine sample; Male urethral swab sample; Cervical or vaginal sample A urine test may be performed to detect chlamydia. However, urine tests are not so often prescribed to women. Many specialists prefer to use the test of a cervical sample, as in the past it was believed to give more accurate results. It should be taken into account that the Pap smear, a routine examination that is used to diagnose cervical cancer, is not intended to identify chlamydia. Similarly, if a patient has been tested or treated for other sexually transmitted infections, this should not be assumed to cover chlamydia. Not only does chlamydia require its own test, but treatments for some of the other sexually transmitted infections are ineffective against chlamydia. What are the characteristics of chlamydia tests in men and women? Testing for chlamydia differs between men and women. This is due to the places in the body that the bacteria affect.Exam in women To take an endocervical swab, a gynecologist will insert a speculum, a device usually made of metal that helps keep the vaginal walls open so the cervix can be viewed. A thin swab is then used to take a sample from the cervix, which is then sent to a laboratory. Less commonly, a vaginal sample may be taken, which requires inserting a swab into the vagina and gently twisting it to collect enough discharge. When examining the urine, it should not be forgotten that it is necessary for the patient to have a full bladder. Test in men The doctor will ask for a urine sample or take a sample from the glans penis using a small swab. This sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. Not all doctors perform a urine test for chlamydia, however, this test is also a good option. Research on chlamydia is improving. Tests often provide results in just a few hours, allowing for rapid treatment. References: 1. Mania-Pramanik J, Kerkar S, Sonawane S, Mehta P, Salvi V. Current Chlamydia trachomatis Infection, A Major Cause of Infertility 2. Meyer T. Diagnostic Procedures to Detect Chlamydia trachomatis Infections 3. Trebach JD, Chaulk CP , Page KR, Tuddenham S, Ghanem KG. Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis among women reporting extragenital exposures 4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Chlamydia Treatment and Care 5. Verywell Health. How Chlamydia Is DiagnosedCenters for Disease Control and Prevention. Chlamydia Treatment and Care 5. Verywell Health. How Chlamydia Is DiagnosedCenters for Disease Control and Prevention. Chlamydia Treatment and Care 5. Verywell Health. How Chlamydia Is Diagnosed