Sexually transmitted infections

Clinical information

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be caused by bacteria (e. g. Treponema pallidum, Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Mycoplasma), viruses (e. g. human papillomavirus (HPV), HSV) or parasites (Trichomonas vaginalis) that are transmitted from person to person through vaginal, anal or oral sex. The course, symptoms and consequences of STIs can vary considerably depending on the causative pathogen. In many cases, the infection is asymptomatic, so that it goes undetected for a long time and is only diagnosed when it has become chronic. Infections with these pathogens often cause inflammation of the urogenital tract which, if left untreated, can spread upwards and lead to infertility, among others. Some pathogens cause cell changes that can sometimes lead to cervical cancer.

In addition to the direct consequences for the patient, infections with most sexually transmitted pathogens during pregnancy can lead to intrauterine death, premature birth or damage to the foetus. Moreover, many pathogens can be transmitted to the newborn during birth, causing severe postnatal infections.

Diagnostics

The most commonly used methods for detecting STIs are direct methods, where the pathogen is detected by PCR or culture, and indirect methods, i. e. detection of pathogen-specific antibodies. Since detection by culture is particularly time-consuming and difficult for Chlamydia, Mycoplasma, Ureaplasma and Treponema, other detection methods, e. g. PCR-based and/or serological procedures, are generally recommended or required for these pathogens.

Files

Extensive portfolio for syphilis diagnostics

Chlamydia infections - Comprehensive diagnostics

EUROArray STI - Detection of up to 11 relevant sexually transmitted pathogens in one reaction