Accuracy of tests used to detect infection with Chlamydia trachomatis in asymptomatic pregnant women: a systematic review

Abstract

There is a need for a point-of-care test for Chlamydia in pregnancy. Future test accuracy studies for this population should aim to use a universally established reference standard. Further research should provide relevant evidence to guide practice.

Performance of Sexually Transmitted Disease Laboratories for Chlamydia trachomatis Detection in Guangdong, China

“…Given that chlamydial infections in pregnant women may be linked to spontaneous abortion, preterm birth, stillbirth, newborn blindness, and increased female infertility, adoption of suitable screening tests with high sensitivity is essential to improve maternal and child health. 30,31 The Guangdong Provincial Center for STD Control has strongly encouraged STD laboratories to use NAATs to improve C. trachomatis detection. Although some progress has been made in the last 5 years, the results remain unsatisfactory.…”

“…Only 17.81% of the maternal and child health care hospitals that participated in the current study performed NAATs in their clinical laboratories. Given that chlamydial infections in pregnant women may be linked to spontaneous abortion, preterm birth, stillbirth, newborn blindness, and increased female infertility, adoption of suitable screening tests with high sensitivity is essential to improve maternal and child health 30,31 …”