Pilot study to assess the presence of Chlamydia trachomatis in urine from 18-30-year-old males using EIA/IF and PCR.
BACKGROUND
To increase detection, urine samples from young males could be opportunistically tested for Chlamydia trachomatis.


OBJECTIVE
To determine C. trachomatis prevalence in urine, optimum specimen and compare sensitivity/feasibility of routine use of different testing methods.


METHODS
Group A, 'sterile' pyuria samples June 1998-January 1999, tested by enzyme immunoassay (EIA) and, if reactive, by immunofluorescence (IF). Subsequently batch-tested by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Group B, consecutive urine samples October 1998-January 1999; batch-tested by PCR.


METHODS
Microbiology laboratory.


METHODS
From males aged 18-30 years; group A = 71, group B = 83.


METHODS
Chlamydia trachomatis positive if EIA- and IF- or PCR-positive.


RESULTS
Group A: 12 EIA/IF-positive; 9/12 and 15 EIA-negative samples PCR-positive. Group B: 11 PCR-positive; 8/11 showed 'sterile' pyuria.


CONCLUSIONS
Opportunistic testing of urine from young men shows a significant number of C. trachomatis infections. 'Sterile' pyuria samples are optimal. EIA/IF are less sensitive than PCR but can be routinely performed and detect a significant proportion of cases.
Basarab
Adriana
A
Public Health Laboratory, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, UK. Adriana.Basarab@suht.swest.nhs.uk
Browning
David
D
Lanham
Stuart
S
O'Connell
Susan
S
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002690:Chlamydia Infections / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000652:urine*; D002692:Chlamydia trachomatis / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D006801:Humans; D007124:Immunoenzyme Techniques; D008297:Male; D010865:Pilot Projects; D016133:Polymerase Chain Reaction; D015995:Prevalence; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D006113:United Kingdom / Q000453:epidemiology