Association of Mycoplasma genitalium with balanoposthitis in men with non-gonococcal urethritis.
OBJECTIVE
To determine whether Mycoplasma genitalium is associated with balanitis and/or posthitis in a previous study of the role of M genitalium in men with acute non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU).


METHODS
In a previous study of men with acute NGU, the existence of balanitis and/or posthitis was recorded. Chlamydia trachomatis, M genitalium and ureaplasmas were sought in urethral swabs and urine using a direct fluorescent antibody test and in-house PCR, an in-house PCR and a culture method, respectively. Men were treated with doxycycline or erythromycin.


RESULTS
M genitalium was associated significantly (p = 0.01) with balanitis and/or posthitis in 114 men with acute NGU. This association persisted when there was control for C trachomatis and urethral discharge (p = 0.021, OR 4.1, 95% CI 1.2 to 13.5). C trachomatis and ureaplasmas were not associated with balanitis and/or posthitis.


CONCLUSIONS
Detection of M genitalium in men with acute NGU was associated significantly with balanitis and/or posthitis. The association is biologically plausible and may have a role in HIV-1 transmission and susceptibility.
Horner
Patrick J
PJ
Department of Social Medicine, School of Social and Community Medicine, University of Bristol, 39 Whatley Road, Bristol BS8 2PS, UK. Paddy.horner@bristol.ac.uk
Taylor-Robinson
David
D
D000208:Acute Disease; D001446:Balanitis / Q000382:microbiology*; D002690:Chlamydia Infections; D002692:Chlamydia trachomatis; D052816:Foreskin; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009175:Mycoplasma Infections; D045704:Mycoplasma genitalium; D014526:Urethritis / Q000382:microbiology*