Funda ÇİMEN AÇIKGÜL, Hatıra BABASOY
Pelviperineology - 2026;45(1):22-27
Objective: Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) represents a major global health concern with over 130 million annual infections. Epidemiological data remain limited in Eastern Anatolia, Türkiye. This study determined CT prevalence among women presenting with pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or genital symptoms in this region. Materials and Methods: Vaginal and cervical specimens from 100 female patients attending gynecology services at a university hospital in Eastern Anatolia during 2025 were examined. Participants presented with genital discharge, burning during urination, and pain during sexual intercourse. DNA extraction utilized the NucleoGene kit, followed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification targeting the cryptic plasmid with primers KL1 and KL2. Products showing 241 bp bands were considered positive. Results: Among 100 participants (mean age 36.3 years), PCR identified CT in 14 samples (14%). The mean age of CT-positive cases was 34.5 years. Clinical presentations included 5 PID diagnoses, 90 vaginal discharge complaints, and 5 routine examinations. CT was detected in one PID case (20%) and thirteen genital discharge cases (14.4%). Conclusion: This investigation demonstrates 14% CT prevalence in Eastern Anatolia, confirming a substantial regional health issue. The relatively higher positivity observed in younger women suggests a potential benefit of targeted screening. Expanding molecular diagnostics and establishing screening programs are essential for identifying asymptomatic infections and preventing reproductive complications.
