The diagnosis of Chlamydia trachomatis cervical infection among students by using classical and molecular methods

Abstract

Introduction Chlamydia trachomatis is the most common cause of sexually transmitted disease. The possibility of serious complications may be prevented by early detection of the bacteria on the uterine cervix by the application of sensitive and reliable tests such as up-to-date molecular tests. Objective The aim of the study was the comparison of sensitivity and specificity of three different methods in the diagnosis of Chlamydia trachomatis infection. Methods The study included 69 female students referred to the gynecological outpatient unit at the Students' Polyclinic for colposcopic examination of the uterine cervix. Cervical Chlamydia trachomatis was diagnosed by using three different methods: direct immunofluorescence (DIF), nucleic acid hybridization assay (hc2), and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results By using DIF Chlamydia trachomatis was identified in four students (5.80%), by using hc2 also in four (5.80%), while by using PCR test in six students (8.70%). Comparative analysis of the obtained results evidenced sensitivity and specificity rates of DIF in comparison to PCR method of 46% and 95%, respectively. Sensitivity and specificity of DIF method in comparison to hc2 was 62% and 97%. Sensitivity and specificity of hc2 method in comparison to PCR was 76% and 100%. Conclusion Contemporary molecular methods, such as PCR, are methods of choice for the identification of endocervical Chlamydia trachomatis in the population of university students without symptoms of the disease.