Detection of Chlamydia Trachomatis by Real-time PCR of a Sample of the Female Population of Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil Referred to the Private and Public Health Services

Abstract

Introduction: Sexually transmitted infections are relatively frequent and constitute a serious public health problem almost everywhere. Chlamydia trachomatis is the organism responsible for more than half the cases of nongonococcal urethritis, as well as numerous cases of cervicitis. Its behavior is characterized mostly by the absence of symptoms, which is of great concern, especially because of sequelae that this can cause, such as infertility in women. In most developing countries there is no cervicovaginal data on incidence or prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis. Therefore, they usually work with national estimates from other countries and regions worldwide, provided mainly by the World Health Organization. For lack of more precise information mainly from Brazil and the State of Alagoas, this study aimed to verify the current incidence of Chlamydia trachomatis infection in Maceio, and relate it to clinical, cytological and colposcopic analysis demonstrating the importance of screening and of encouraging this approach in order to improve women’s health. Materials and Methods: The methodology used for the detection of Chlamydia trachomatis was real-time PCR in 514 samples, and sensitivity and specificity were increased, providing meaningful data. Results: The results showed that women between 20 and 35 years showed a frequency of 4.08% for Chlamydia trachomatis. It was also observed that there is no relationship between clinical findings (burning and vaginal discharge) with the obligatory presence of Chlamydia trachomatis, being significant only the results of colposcopy, which in most cases they were altered by PCR analysis-real time was also positive. The number of positive results in samples collected in the public showed superiority when compared to the private sector. Conclusions: The prevalence results lead us to conclude that there is a relationship between socioeconomic status and chlamydia infection, since the women of the city of Maceio trited at public medical services cannot afford in private treatment.