Grayce P. Storey
Chlamydia are a group of microscopic organisms that range in size between a virus and a bacteria. This microscopic organism can cause infection in both humans and animals.
Chlamydia trachomatis
causes infections in the genitals, eyes, lymph nodes, lungs, rectum and throat.
Genital infections of
Chlamydia trachomatis
cause the STD, lymphogranuloma venereum in the tropics. In developed countries it causes nonspecific urethritis (NSU) or nongonococcal genital infection which is most common in the United States.
NSU in men may cause penile discharge, infection of the epididymis, and if untreated may lead to infertility. In women NSU is usually symptomless: however, there may be a vaginal discharge or painful urination which may be associated with cervicitis (cervical inflammation), or salpingitis (inflammation of the fallopian tube). An estimated 5 to 13 percent of all women in the U.S. have a chlamydial inflammation of the cervix. Treatment for NSU is with antibiotics, such as tetracycline or erythromycin. Both sexual partners should be treated.
Certain strains of
Chlamydia trachomatis
occur in parts of Africa and Asia where hygiene is lacking. The result is a serious eye disease, called trachoma. This disease is spread from eye to eye by flies. This strain is the most leading cause of blindness worldwide.
Chlamydia trachomatis
causes a serious respiratory infection and is a major cause of pneumonia among infants in the United States. Three to four babies out of a thousand are affected. The main symptoms are difficult breathing and staccato coughs. The treatment is,with antibiotics.
