Chlamydial infections.

Sexually transmitted infections caused by Chlamydia trachomatis are of epidemic proportions. Since chlamydial infections are often asymptomatic, identification of infected persons is the major public health challenge in the control of chlamydial disease. Unfortunately, asymptomatic infections in women can be complicated by salpingitis, ectopic pregnancy, and involuntary infertility. The best current diagnostic test is cell culture. Direct antigen tests are cheaper and more widely available than cell culture but are less sensitive. Improved diagnostic tests, screening of groups at risk, educating patients and health care providers, and reporting of chlamydial infections will be essential in controlling chlamydial disease.