Current methods in the diagnosis of Chlamydia infections
Catalan, F.; Khoury, B.; Ouizman, E.; Mimic, V.; Doulé, D.; Margeray, M.
Revue Francaise de Gynecologie et d'Obstetrique 79(10): 617-623
1984
ISSN/ISBN: 0035-290X PMID: 6396811 Document Number: 229151
The pathogenicity of Chlamydia species is no longer questioned and most figures indicate that these organisms are the leading cause of sexually transmitted diseases. Diagnosis by direct examination of a stained slide is not acceptable due to inadequate sensitivity. The use of monoclonal antibodies conjugated to ITCF, however, is a good method to detect chlamydial particles. Cultures are made from specimens of heavily infected cells, centrifuged with cells from the McCoy cell line treated with cycloheximide. The inclusions are visualized using immunological techniques (immunofluorescence or staining with a peroxidase-antiperoxidase reaction). By using wells of microplates, this method is less expensive and can also be used for antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Serology (by MIF or ELISA) is very helpful, especially to investigate complications originating from a lower genital tract infection. Both techniques are useful in routine screening.