Prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis in an asymptomatic female population attending cervical cytology services of three healthcare centers in Medellín, Colombia

Abstract

: The sexually transmitted infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis is the most common of bacterial etiology in the world. Although it can be asymptomatic in most cases, it can produce several reproductive health problems in women such as cervicitis, endometritis, and salpingitis. Despite its importance, the epidemiological data on this infection is insufficient in Medellín. Objective: To determine the prevalence of C. trachomatis in women from Medellín, identify possible risk factors, and evaluate its relationship with the human papillomavirus infection (HPV).Materials and methods: We conducted a multicenter cross-sectional study to detect C. trachomatis infection in 1,282 women using PCR and the LightMix 480 HT CT/NG™ commercial kit (Roche, Basel, Switzerland). Results: The total prevalence of C. trachomatis infection was 4.1% (95% CI: 2.9-5.3). We found an association between the presence of the infection and age, cigarette consumption, and the use of hormonal contraceptives. Conclusion: The prevalence of the infection is similar to that reported in other parts of the world with young women being the most affected population. No relation was found with the presence of HPV.