Definition:
Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted disease. This article discusses chlamydia infections in women. See also:
Alternative Names:
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Chlamydia is caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis. Different strains of chlamydia cause genital, eye, lymph node, and respiratory infections. A baby born to a woman with a chlamydia infection of the cervix may develop eye or lung infections. Chlamydia is transmitted through sexual activity. Sexually active individuals and individuals with multiple partners are at highest risk for chlamydia infections.
References: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Update to sexually transmitted diseases guidelines, 2006: fluoroquinolones no longer recommended for treatment of gonococcal infections. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2007;56:332-336.
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