Detection of Macrolide and/or Fluoroquinolone Resistance Genes in Mycoplasma genitalium Strains Isolated from Men in the Northwest Region of Croatia in 2018-2023

Mycoplasma genitalium (M. genitalium) poses a significant public health challenge due to its association with non-gonococcal urethritis (particularly in men) and antimicrobial resistance. However, despite the prevalence of M. genitalium infections and the rise in resistance rates, routine testing and surveillance remain limited. This is the first study from Croatia that aimed to assess the prevalence and trends of resistance in M. genitalium strains isolated from male individuals by detecting macrolide and fluoroquinolone resistance genes. The study also aimed to explore the factors associated with resistance and changes in resistance patterns over time. Urine samples collected from male individuals in the Zagreb County and northwest region of Croatia between 2018 and 2023 were tested for M. genitalium with the use of molecular methods. Positive samples were subjected to DNA extraction and multiplex tandem polymerase chain reaction (MT-PCR) targeting genetic mutations associated with macrolide (23S rRNA gene) and fluoroquinolone (parC gene) resistance. Of the 8073 urine samples tested from 6480 male individuals (and following the exclusion of repeated specimens), we found that the prevalence of M. genitalium infection was 2.2%. Macrolide resistance was observed in 60.4% of strains, while fluoroquinolone resistance was found in 19.2%. Co-resistance to both antibiotics was present in 18.2% of cases. A statistically significant increase in fluoroquinolone resistance was noted over the study period (p = 0.010), but this was not evident for azithromycin resistance (p = 0.165). There were no statistically significant differences in resistance patterns between age groups, whereas re-testing of patients revealed dynamic changes in resistance profiles over time. The high burden of macrolide resistance and increasing fluoroquinolone resistance underscore the urgent need for comprehensive resistance testing and surveillance programs. The implementation of resistance-guided treatment strategies, along with enhanced access to molecular diagnostics, is pivotal for effectively managing M. genitalium infections.

Clinical Presentations and Treatment Outcomes of Mycoplasma genitalium Infections at a Large New York City Health Care System

BACKGROUND

Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) is an emerging sexually transmitted infection. Treatment of MG is complicated by increasing resistance to primary treatment regimens, including macrolides and fluoroquinolones. Understanding the various clinical presentations and relative effectiveness of treatments for MG is crucial to optimizing care.

METHODS

Patients with a positive MG nucleic acid amplification test between July 1, 2019, and June 30, 2021, at a large health system in New York City were included in a retrospective cohort. Demographics, clinical presentations, coinfections, treatment, and follow-up microbiologic tests were obtained from the electronic medical record. Associations with microbiologic cure were evaluated in bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models.

RESULTS

Five hundred two unique patients had a positive MG nucleic acid amplification test result during the study period. Male individuals presented predominantly with urethritis (117 of 187 [63%]) and female individuals with vaginal symptoms (142 of 315 [45%]). Among patients with follow-up testing who received a single antibiotic at the time of treatment, 43% (90 of 210) had persistent infection and 57% (120 of 210) had microbiologic cure. Eighty-two percent of patients treated with moxifloxacin had microbiologic cure compared with 41% of patients receiving azithromycin regimens ( P < 0.001). In multivariable analysis, treatment with moxifloxacin was associated with 4 times the odds of microbiologic cure relative to low-dose azithromycin (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 4.18; 95% confidence interval, 1.73-10.13; P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical presentations of MG vary, with urethritis or vaginal symptoms in most cases. Among patients who received a single antibiotic, only treatment with moxifloxacin was significantly associated with microbiologic cure relative to low-dose azithromycin.

High level of HIV viral suppression in a cross-sectional study of Ugandan men with urethritis and bacterial STI

BACKGROUND

Urethritis associated with non-viral sexually transmitted infections (STI) increases the risk of HIV acquisition and transmission in those living with HIV (LWH) without viral load suppression (VLS). Compared to women, men typically have lower rates of HIV VLS. We assessed the prevalence of VLS and drug resistance mutations in men LWH and urethral discharge syndrome (UDS) in Kampala, Uganda.

METHODS

Men with UDS were recruited in Kampala October 2019-November 2020. Medical, demographic, and behavioural data were collected with biological samples. All reactive HIV results (rapid, sequential algorithm) underwent confirmatory HIV antibody- and HIV incidence-testing, and viral load (VL) measurement. The pol and gp41 regions were sequenced on samples with VLs >1000 cpm, phylogenetic trees were generated, and resistance mutations were investigated.

RESULTS

50 of 250 participants (20%) had reactive HIV rapid tests and 48/50 (96%) were aware of their HIV status and using antiretroviral therapy (ART). The median age was 38 years (IQR 32-45), 27/50 (54%) had engaged in transactional sex, and 30/50 (60%) reported alcohol before sex. VLS was present in 46/50 (92%). There were no major resistance mutations present in any samples analyzed.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of HIV and VLS was greater in these men than in the general Ugandan adult population. Most men LWH were on ART and thus less likely to transmit HIV despite demonstrating sexual behaviours associated with high-risk of STIs. These data emphasize that high levels of ART coverage and VLS are achievable among men with UDS in urban Kampala.

Detection of Novel US Neisseria meningitidis Urethritis Clade Subtypes in Japan

Neisseria meningitidis causes invasive meningococcal diseases and has also been identified as a causative agent of sexually transmitted infections, including urethritis. Unencapsulated sequence type 11 meningococci containing the gonococcal aniA-norB locus and belonging to the United States N. meningitidis urethritis clade (US_NmUC) are causative agents of urethral infections in the United States, predominantly among men who have sex with men. We identified 2 subtypes of unencapsulated sequence type 11 meningococci in Japan that were phylogenetically close to US_NmUC, designated as the Japan N. meningitidis urethritis clade (J_NmUC). The subtypes were characterized by PCR, serologic testing, and whole-genome sequencing. Our study suggests that an ancestor of US_NmUC and J_NmUS urethritis-associated meningococci is disseminated worldwide. Global monitoring of urethritis-associated N. meningitidis isolates should be performed to further characterize microbiologic and epidemiologic characteristics of urethritis clade meningococci.

The third nationwide surveillance of antimicrobial susceptibility against Neisseria gonorrhoeae from male urethritis in Japan, 2016-2017

Neisseria gonorrhoeae is one of the important pathogens of sexually transmitted infections. N. gonorrhoeae is rapidly becoming antimicrobial resistant, and there are few drugs that are effective in the initial treatment of gonorrhea. To understand the trends of antimicrobial susceptibility of N. gonorrhoeae, the Surveillance Committee of the Japanese Society of Infectious Diseases, the Japanese Society for Chemotherapy, and the Japanese Society of Clinical Microbiology conducted the third nationwide antimicrobial susceptibility surveillance of N. gonorrhoeae isolated from male urethritis. The specimens were collected from male patients with urethritis at 30 facilities from May 2016 to July 2017. From the 159 specimens collected, 87 N. gonorrhoeae strains were isolated, and 85 were tested for susceptibility to 21 antimicrobial agents. All strains were non-susceptible to penicillin G. Seven strains (8.2%) were β-lactamase-producing strains. The rates of susceptibility to cefixime and cefpodoxime were 96.5% and 52.9%, respectively. Three strains were non-susceptible with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 0.5 mg/L for cefixime. None of the strains were resistant to ceftriaxone or spectinomycin. The susceptibility rate for ciprofloxacin was 23.5% (20 strains), and no strains showed intermediate susceptibility. The susceptibility rate against azithromycin was 81.2%, with one strain isolated with a MIC of 8 mg/L against azithromycin. The results of this surveillance indicate that ceftriaxone and spectinomycin, which are currently recommended for gonococcal infections in Japan, appear to be effective. It will be necessary to further expand the scale of the next surveillance to understand the current status of drug-resistant N. gonorrhoeae in Japan.

Diagnosis and treatment outcomes of urethritis-like symptoms in young males: a retrospective cohort study

The study evaluated the prevalence of gonorrhoea and chlamydia infections and find out other non-infectious diseases in sexually active young males with urethritis-like symptoms and their treatment outcomes. We retrospectively reviewed the young adult males (aged 20-50 years) who visited our clinic with urethritis symptoms from March 2019 to April 2022. All patients underwent urinalysis, urine culture, and urinary polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing for gonorrhoea and chlamydia. Student's t-test and Pearson's chi-square test were used to compare the differences between the triple-negative group (i.e., negative results in urinalysis, urine culture, and urinary PCR) and the any-positive group. Logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate the predictive factors for positive PCR results for gonorrhoea or chlamydia in patients with negative urinalysis and urine culture. Of the 365 participants with urethritis-like symptoms, 139 patients were diagnosed of gonococcal or chlamydia urethritis. Among the 202 patients with negative urinalysis and urine culture, 60 patients were diagnosed with gonorrhoea or chlamydia using PCR. Urethral discharge was an independent predictor. 142 patients with triple negative results were attributed to other non-infectious diseases. Empirical antibiotic treatment is recommended for patients with urethritis symptoms showing positive or negative urinalysis results but with urethral discharge.

Continuing genomic evolution of the Neisseria meningitidis cc11.2 urethritis clade, NmUC: a narrative review

Neisseria meningitidis (Nm) is a bacterial pathogen responsible for invasive meningococcal disease. Though typically colonizing the nasopharynx, multiple outbreaks of meningococcal urethritis were first reported in 2015-2016; outbreaks originally presumed to be caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae (Ng). Genomic analysis revealed that the Nm isolates causing these outbreaks were a distinct clade, and had integrated gonococcal DNA at multiple genomic sites, including the gonococcal denitrification apparatus aniA-norB, a partial gonococcal operon of five genes containing ispD, and the acetylglutamate kinase gene argB with the adjacent gonococcal locus NGO0843. The urethritis isolates had also deleted the group C capsule biosynthesis genes cssA/B/C and csc, resulting in loss of capsule. Collectively, these isolates form the N. meningitidis urethritis clade (NmUC). Genomic analysis of recent (2016-2022) NmUC isolates revealed that the genomic features have been maintained in the clade, implying that they are important for NmUC's status as a urogenital pathogen. Furthermore, the analysis revealed the emergence of a sub-clade, designated NmUC-B, phylogenetically separated from the earlier NmUC-A. This sub-clade has integrated additional gonococcal alleles into the genome, including alleles associated with antimicrobial resistance. NmUC continues to adapt to a urethral niche and evolve as a urogenital pathogen.

Outbreak of Sexually Transmitted Nongroupable Neisseria meningitidis-Associated Urethritis, Vietnam

We report on an outbreak of nongroupable Neisseria meningitidis-associated urethritis, primarily among men who have sex with men in southern Vietnam. Nearly 50% of N. meningitidis isolates were resistant to ciprofloxacin. This emerging pathogen should be considered in the differential diagnosis and management of urethritis.

The Incidence Rate of Sexual Behaviors Among Cisgender Men Who Have Sex with Men Attending a Sexual Health Clinic

Although nuanced parameterization of sexual behavior may improve estimates from mathematical models of human immunodeficiency virus and sexually transmitted infection transmission, prospective estimates of the incidence of specific sexual behaviors among men who have sex with men (MSM) are limited. From December 2014 to July 2018, MSM with and without nongonococcal urethritis (NGU) completed weekly diaries over 3-12 weeks. Incidence rates of any sex, receptive anal sex, insertive anal sex, insertive oral sex, receptive rimming, and receptive hand-penile contact were 1.19, 0.28, 0.66, 0.90, 0.24, and 0.85 episodes per person-week, respectively, among 104 MSM with NGU at baseline, and 1.33, 0.54, 0.32, 0.95, 0.44, and 0.88 episodes per person-week, respectively, among 25 MSM without NGU at baseline. Most receptive anal sex (NGU + 83%, NGU - 86%) and insertive anal sex (NGU + 85%, NGU - 76%) episodes were condomless. MSM engaged in sex just over once per week, and condom use was infrequent. Insertive oral sex and receptive hand-penile contact were the most common behaviors.

Prevalence of fluoroquinolone resistance-associated mutations in Mycoplasma genitalium among clients of two sexual health centres in the Netherlands: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of fluoroquinolone resistance-associated mutations (QRAMs) in Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) among clients of two sexual health centres (SHCs) in the Netherlands.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional study.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Between 2018 and 2019, 669 clients with MG were included from two previous studies: 375 male clients with urethritis from the SHC in Amsterdam; and 294 clients (male and female) from the SHC in Amsterdam and The Hague. Urogenital and anal samples (705 in total) that tested positive for MG by nucleic acid amplification tests were selected.

OUTCOME MEASURES

The presence of QRAM was detected by an MG-QRAM PCR targeting four mutations in the parC gene and investigated by sequence analysis of relevant regions of the gyrA and parC genes. Possible risk factors for the presence of QRAM were investigated.

RESULTS

We found QRAM in 58 of 669 (9%) clients with an MG infection: 36 of 375 (10%) in the study population of men with urethritis and 22 of 294 (7%) in the study population of other clients (including both men and women; p=0.334). Most prevalent mutations in the parC gene were S83I and D87N, occurring in 31 of 60 (52%) and 20 of 60 (33%) samples, respectively. Factors associated with the presence of QRAM were: men who have sex with men (adjusted OR (aOR) 3.4, 95% CI 1.7 to 6.9) and Asian origin (aOR 2.5, 95% CI 1.2 to 5.6). Multidrug resistance (QRAM plus macrolide resistance-associated mutations) was found in 46 of 669 (7%) clients.

CONCLUSIONS

Nine per cent of MG-positive clients from two Dutch SHCs had QRAM. New treatment strategies and antibiotics are needed to treat symptomatic patients with multidrug-resistant MG.

Investigating the microbial pathogens of sexually transmitted infections among heterosexual Vietnamese men with symptomatic urethritis

OBJECTIVE

To explore the microbial etiology of urethritis in Vietnamese men and the association with patients' characteristics, especially their sexual behaviors.

METHODS

This study was conducted on 349 men who presented with symptomatic urethritis and evidence of STIs (determined by multiplex PCR tests) at the Department of Andrology and Sexual Medicine-Hanoi Medical University Hospital. All information regarding medical history, sexual activities, and symptoms of urethritis was documented.

RESULTS

C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoea remained the two most common causative pathogens, followed by an unexpectedly high prevalence of Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma species. Coinfection was significant with a rate of 40.7%. Men who had sex with female sex workers (FSWs) were more likely to be positive with N. gonorrhoea but less likely to be positive with C. trachomatis and M. genitalium than those having sex with only one romantic partner.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggested the important role of other microorganisms, especially M. genitalium, in the etiology of urethritis in men besides the previously well-known causes of STIs. Since the coinfection rate is quite high, targeted treatment with clear microbial evidence should be considered rather than empiric antimicrobial therapy.

Corynebacterium glucuronolyticum in men with and without urethritis syndrome: An underrecognized pathogen or a bona fide commensal?

BACKGROUND

By analysing the largest collection of Corynebacterium glucuronolyticum (C. glucuronolyticum) isolates from a single centre thus far, we aimed to appraise a potential causal link between an infrequently isolated species and the urethritis syndrome in men.

METHODS

A total of 1055 Caucasian male individuals with or without urethritis syndrome were included in this single-centre case-control study. Group-wise comparisons were pursued by analysing sociodemographic, behavioural and microbiological specificities between the two groups. C. glucuronolyticum isolates from urethral specimens were identified using the analytical profile index biotyping system (API Coryne) and additionally confirmed by MALDI-TOF mass-spectrometry, with subsequent determination of their antimicrobial sensitivity profiles. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05 (two-tailed).

RESULTS

C. glucuronolyticum was isolated in 5.08% of study participants with urethritis syndrome and 3.60% of those without it (p = 0.303). In the urethritis group, the species was more frequently found as a sole isolate (p = 0.041) and after prior infection with Chlamydia trachomatis (p = 0.025). The most frequent presentation of urethritis included a clear discharge in small or moderate amounts, without any pathognomonic findings. The resistance rates were 62.22% for clindamycin, 42.22% for tetracycline and 26.67% for ciprofloxacin.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study provides major insights on the relevance of urethral C. glucuronolyticum in non-gonococcal urethritis, with significant implications for further aetiological research and management approaches.

Retrospective Analysis of Ugandan Men with Urethritis Reveals Mycoplasma genitalium and Associated Macrolide Resistance

The rising rates of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Mycoplasma genitalium globally and the association of this sexually transmitted infection (STI) with cervicitis, urethritis, and HIV are potentially of great public health concern. Data on the epidemiology of M. genitalium in men in sub-Saharan Africa are limited. We sought to determine the prevalence of M. genitalium and macrolide resistance in men with urethritis in Kampala, Uganda. Self-collected penile-meatal swabs and/or urine samples from men with symptomatic urethritis (n = 250) were retrospectively analyzed for the presence of M. genitalium and macrolide resistance markers with the Aptima M. genitalium and ResistancePlus M. genitalium assays. Additionally, demographic and STI coinfection data were used to investigate associations with M. genitalium infection. M. genitalium was detected in 12.8% (32/250) of individuals; 40.6% (n = 13) had M. genitalium monoinfection. Mutations associated with macrolide resistance were detected in 10.7% (3/28) of participants. Coinfection with Neisseria gonorrhoeae was common (41.0%), but M. genitalium was more prevalent in participants without N. gonorrhoeae coinfection (P = 0.001). M. genitalium is common in Ugandan men with urethritis both as a monoinfection and as a coinfection with other curable STIs. Macrolide resistance was present and warrants further research on treatment outcomes and the association between untreated M. genitalium and subsequent morbidity. IMPORTANCE Mycoplasma genitalium is a common sexually transmitted infection associated with urethritis in men. Little is known about M. genitalium infection in men with urethritis in Uganda. We report that 12% of participants in this study were positive for M. genitalium and that resistance to azithromycin, a macrolide antibiotic, is present. Furthermore, we show that either self-collected penile-meatal swabs or urine can be used for detection of M. genitalium.

[Urethritis in the context of risk of sexually transmitted infections : update!]

Urethritis of infectious origin are part of the sexually transmitted diseases (STD) that represent a major public health problem in terms of costs and morbidity. The incidence of urethritis has been increasing for several years and the diagnosis and management must be carried out as soon as possible to avoid complications that may arise and that are sometimes irreversible, but also to limit contamination chains. The difficulties of diagnosis lie in the numerous asymptomatic cases and the management of sexual partners who may be multiple and difficult to identify. The constantly changing epidemiology and resistance to antibiotics guide new developments in their management.

Mycoplasma genitalium and sexually transmitted infections: evidences and figures in a tertiary hospital

Introduction

Mycoplasma genitalium is an emerging cause of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and has been implicated in non-gonococcal urethritis in men and cervicitis in woman. The aim of this study is determinate the incidence and pathogenicity of M. genitalium within the diagnosis of STIs detected from clinical samples in a third level hospital.

Material and methods

A total of 8,473 samples from endocervix, urethra, vagina, rectum and others were processed applying Allpex STI Essential Assay. More than 190 records were reviewed to determinate M. genitalium pathogenicity.

Results

M. genitalium was detected in a rate 2.8%. Co-infections were detected in 20% of the patients.

Conclusions

M. genitalium is considered a STI emerging pathogen thanks to the renewal of multiplex-PCR tests although with a low incidence in our approach. Emerging from our experience and the institutional recommendations both detection of acid nucleic techniques (NAATs) and gonococcal culture might be implemented accurately and coexist to adequate prescriptions.

Nationwide surveillance of the antimicrobial susceptibility of Chlamydia trachomatis from male urethritis in Japan: Comparison with the first surveillance report

The Urogenital Sub-committee and the Surveillance Committee of the Japanese Society of Chemotherapy, The Japanese Association for Infectious Diseases, and the Japanese Society for Clinical Microbiology conducted the second nationwide surveillance of the antimicrobial susceptibility of Chlamydia trachomatis. In this second surveillance study, clinical urethral discharge specimens were collected from patients with urethritis in 26 hospitals and clinics from May 2016 to July 2017. Based on serial cultures, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) could be determined for 41 isolates; the MICs (MIC₉₀) of ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, tosufloxacin, sitafloxacin, doxycycline, minocycline, erythromycin, clarithromycin, azithromycin and solithromycin were 2 μg/ml (2 μg/ml), 1 μg/ml (0.5 μg/ml), 0.25 μg/ml (0.25 μg/ml), 0.125 μg/ml (0.063 μg/ml), 0.125 μg/ml (0.125 μg/ml), 0.25 μg/ml (0.25 μg/ml), 0.031 μg/ml (0.031 μg/ml), 0.25 μg/ml (0.125 μg/ml), and 0.016 μg/ml (0.008 μg/ml), respectively. In summary, this surveillance project did not identify any strains resistant to fluoroquinolone, tetracycline, or macrolide agents in Japan. In addition, the MIC of solithromycin was favorable and lower than that of other antimicrobial agents. However, the MIC of azithromycin had a slightly higher value than that reported in the first surveillance report, though this might be within the acceptable margin of error. Therefore, the susceptibility of azithromycin, especially, should be monitored henceforth.

Incidence of Nongonococcal Urethritis in Men Who Have Sex With Women and Associated Risk Factors

BACKGROUND

Incidence and risk factors for nongonococcal urethritis (NGU) remain poorly defined. We conducted a cohort study to estimate the incidence of NGU and identify risk factors in men who have sex with women.

METHODS

We enrolled cisgender male sexually transmitted disease clinic attendees 16 years or older who reported exclusively female partners. At enrollment and 6 monthly follow-up visits, men underwent a clinical examination, provided urethral swab and urine specimens, completed a sexual behavior survey and biweekly diaries, and were tested for Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) using Aptima assays (Hologic, Inc). Nongonococcal urethritis was defined as ≥5 polymorphonuclear leukocytes per high-power field plus either urethral symptoms or visible discharge. We estimated the incidence of NGU overall, asymptomatic and symptomatic NGU, non-CT/non-MG NGU, and CT/MG-associated NGU using Poisson regression for clustered outcomes. We performed relative risk binomial regression for clustered data to identify characteristics associated with incident NGU.

RESULTS

From August 2014 to July 2018, 307 participants at risk for NGU contributed 109.4 person-years. Median age was 32 years, and 52% were White. At enrollment, 107 men had NGU; of these, 88% were symptomatic, 27% had CT, and 22% had MG. Fifty men had 60 cases of incident NGU (incidence rate, 56 per 100 person-years; 95% confidence interval, 43-74). Unlike prevalent NGU at enrollment, CT/MG-associated incident NGU was rare (incidence rate, 7; 95% confidence interval [CI], 4-15), and most (78%) incident NGU was asymptomatic. Risk factors for incident NGU were ≤ high school education (adjusted rate ratio [ARR], 2.45; 95% CI, 1.19-5.00), history of CT (ARR, 2.15; 95% CI, 1.08-4.27), history of NGU (ARR, 2.67; 95% CI, 1.27-5.62), and NGU at enrollment (ARR, 2.03; 95% CI, 1.04-3.98). Neither condom use nor having a new partner was associated with incident NGU; Black race was only associated with incident symptomatic and non-CT/non-MG NGU.

CONCLUSIONS

Incidence of NGU was high, predominantly non-CT/non-MG and asymptomatic. Future studies should investigate the etiology and clinical significance of asymptomatic NGU.

Human Adenovirus B7d-Associated Urethritis after Suspected Sexual Transmission, Japan

Outbreaks of acute respiratory disease associated with human adenovirus (HAdV) B7d have been reported, including fatal cases in the United States. In 2018, we detected HAdV-B7d in a patient with urethritis, probably transmitted through sexual contact. Infectious HAdV-B7d was excreted in urine and gargle for >10 days after the disappearance of symptoms.

Characteristics of Mycoplasma genitalium Urogenital Infections in a Diverse Patient Sample from the United States: Results from the Aptima Mycoplasma genitalium Evaluation Study (AMES)

Data from a large prospective multicenter clinical validation study of a nucleic acid amplification in vitro diagnostic test for Mycoplasma genitalium were analyzed to describe the prevalence of M. genitalium infection, risk factors, and disease associations in female and male patients seeking care in diverse geographic regions of the United States. Among 1,737 female and 1,563 male participants, the overall prevalence of M. genitalium infection was 10.3% and was significantly higher in persons ages 15 to 24 years than in persons ages 35 to 39 years (for females, 19.8% versus 4.7% [odds ratio {OR} = 5.05; 95% confidence interval {CI} = 3.01 to 8.46]; for males, 16.5% versus 9.4% [OR = 1.91; 95% CI = 1.20 to 3.02]). The risk for M. genitalium infection was higher in black than in white participants (for females, 12.0% versus 6.8% [OR = 1.88; 95% CI = 1.30 to 2.72]; for males, 12.9% versus 6.9% [OR = 2.02; 95% CI = 1.38 to 2.96]) and higher in non-Hispanic than in Hispanic participants (for females, 11.2% versus 6.0% [OR = 1.97; 95% CI = 1.25 to 3.10]; for males, 11.6% versus 6.8% [OR = 1.80; 95% CI = 1.14 to 2.85]). Participants reporting urogenital symptoms had a significantly elevated risk of M. genitalium infection compared to that for asymptomatic individuals (for females, OR = 1.53 [95% CI = 1.09 to 2.14]; for males, OR = 1.42 [95% CI = 1.02 to 1.99]). Women diagnosed with vaginitis and cervicitis had a higher prevalence of M. genitalium infection than women without those diagnoses, although this was statistically significant only for vaginitis (for vaginitis, OR = 1.88 [95% CI = 1.37 to 2.58]; for cervicitis, OR = 1.42 [95% CI = 0.61 to 2.96]). A diagnosis of urethritis in men was also significantly associated with M. genitalium infection (OR = 2.97; 95% CI = 2.14 to 4.13). Few characteristics distinguished asymptomatic from symptomatic M. genitalium infections. These results from persons seeking care in the United States suggest that M. genitalium infection should be considered in young persons presenting with urogenital symptoms.

High rates of treatment failure for Mycoplasma genitalium among men and women attending a sexual health clinic

BACKGROUND

Mycoplasma genitalium (Mgen) causes non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU) and is believed to cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). High rates of macrolide resistance are well documented globally for Mgen. In Brighton, patients with NGU and PID are tested for Mgen and test of cure (TOC) offered post-treatment.

METHODS

Demographic, clinical and treatment history data were collected over a 12-month period for all Mgen-positive patients in a Brighton-based genitourinary clinic.

RESULTS

There were 114 patients with Mgen. 18% (61/339) of men with NGU and 9% (15/160) of women with PID had Mgen. 62/114 (54%) returned for first test TOC 4 weeks after treatment. 27/62 (44%) had a positive TOC; 25/27 (92.6%) had received azithromycin first line (500 mg stat then 250 mg OD for 4 days), 1/27 (3.7%) had received moxifloxacin first line (400 mg OD for 14 days) and 1/27 (3.7%) had received doxycycline first line (100 mg BD for 7 days). 20/27 (74%) returned for a second TOC 4 weeks later. 5/20 (25%) patients were positive on second TOC; 3/5 (60%) had received azithromycin second line and 2/5 (40%) had received moxifloxacin second line. Patients were more likely to have a positive TOC if they were at risk of reinfection (9/27 positive TOC vs 3/35 negative TOC; p=0.02). Patients given moxifloxacin were more likely to have a negative TOC (1/27 positive TOC vs 9/35 negative TOC; p=0.03) than those who received other antibiotic regimens.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment failure rates for Mgen following azithromycin use are substantial, raising concerns regarding resistance. However, reinfection risk may contribute, suggesting a requirement for improved public awareness and clinician knowledge.

Mycoplasma genitalium in Symptomatic Male Urethritis: Macrolide Use Is Associated With Increased Resistance

BACKGROUND

Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) causes symptomatic urethritis in men, and can infect alone or together with other sexually transmitted infection (STI) agents.

METHODS

The prevalence of MG and other STIs was determined in 1816 men with symptomatic urethritis. Resistance of MG to macrolides and fluoroquinolones was determined by sequencing; the impact of recent antimicrobial usage on the distribution of MG single or mixed infections was determined.

RESULTS

Overall, prevalence of MG infection was 19.7% (358/1816). Fifty-four percent (166/307) of MG infections occurred alone in the absence of other STI agents. Men with single MG infection self-administered or were prescribed antibiotics more often in the 30 days prior to enrollment than subjects with urethritis caused by MG coinfection (P < .0001). Higher rates (96.7%) of infection with macrolide resistance in MG were identified in men who had taken macrolides prior to enrollment (P < .03). Overall, 88.9% (303/341) of 23S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes contained mutations responsible for macrolide resistance; 89.5% (308/344) of parC and 12.4% (42/339) of gyrA genes had mutations responsible for fluoroquinolone resistance. Approximately 88% (270/308) of MG had combined mutations in 23S rRNA and parC genes; 10.4% (32/308) had mutations in all 3 genes.

CONCLUSIONS

MG was the single pathogen identified in 11% of men with symptomatic urethritis. Overall, nearly 90% of MG infections were resistant to macrolides and fluoroquinolones. Men who took macrolides in the 30 days prior to enrollment had higher rates (97%) of macrolide-resistant MG. Resistance was associated with numerous mutations in 23SrRNA, parC, and gyrA genes.

Specific characteristics of urethral strictures in a developing country (Brazil)

PURPOSE

Evaluate the main etiologies and clinical characteristics of male urethral stricture disease (USD) in Brazil.

METHODS

This multicentric study was performed using retrospective data collected from six Brazilian referral centers of urethral reconstruction. The database comprised data from 899 patients with USD who had undergone surgical treatment from 2008 to 2018. Age, stricture site and primary stricture etiology were identified for each patient.

RESULTS

The mean age was 52.13 ± 16.9 years. The most common etiology was iatrogenic (43.4%), followed by idiopathic (21.7%), trauma (21.5%) and inflammatory (13.7%). Of the iatrogenic causes, 59% were secondary to urethral instrumentation (60% by urethral catheterization and 40% by transurethral procedures), 24.8% by other procedures (prostatectomy, radiotherapy, postectomy) and 16.2% by failed hypospadia repairs. Pelvic fracture urethral distraction injuries were responsible for most of the trauma-related strictures (62.7%). When stratified by age, the most common stricture etiology was trauma in the 0-39 years old group (42.8%), idiopathic in the 40-59 years old group (32.4%) and iatrogenic in patients over 60 years old (68%). In regard to the stricture site, 80% presented with an anterior urethral stricture and 20% with a posterior stenosis. In the anterior stenosis group, the most common stricture site was bulbar (39.5%).

CONCLUSION

In Brazil, as in many developed countries, the most common cause of urethral stricture diseases is iatrogenic, especially urethral catheterization. These findings emphasize the need of a careful urethral manipulation and a better training of healthcare professionals. Trauma is still responsible for a great proportion of strictures and inflammatory etiologies are now less frequently observed.

Neisseria meningitidis ST11 Complex Isolates Associated with Nongonococcal Urethritis, Indiana, USA, 2015-2016

At a clinic in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA, we observed an increase in Neisseria gonorrhoeae–negative men with suspected gonococcal urethritis who had urethral cultures positive for N. meningitidis. We describe genomes of 2 of these N. meningitidis sequence type 11 complex urethritis isolates. Clinical evidence suggests these isolates may represent an emerging urethrotropic clade.

Large Cluster of Neisseria meningitidis Urethritis in Columbus, Ohio, 2015

Background

Neisseria meningitidis (Nm) is a Gram-negative diplococcus that normally colonizes the nasopharynx and rarely infects the urogenital tract. On Gram stain of urethral exudates, Nm can be misidentified as the more common sexually transmitted pathogen Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

Methods

In response to a large increase in cases of Nm urethritis identified among men presenting for screening at a sexually transmitted disease clinic in Columbus, Ohio, we investigated the epidemiologic characteristics of men with Nm urethritis and the molecular and phylogenetic characteristics of their Nm isolates. The study was conducted between 1 January and 18 November 2015.

Results

Seventy-five Nm urethritis cases were confirmed by biochemical and polymerase chain reaction testing. Men with Nm urethritis were a median age of 31 years (interquartile range [IQR] = 24-38) and had a median of 2 sex partners in the last 3 months (IQR = 1-3). Nm cases were predominantly black (81%) and heterosexual (99%). Most had urethral discharge (91%), reported oral sex with a female in the last 12 months (96%), and were treated with a ceftriaxone-based regimen (95%). A minority (15%) also had urethral chlamydia coinfection. All urethral Nm isolates were nongroupable, ST-11 clonal complex (cc11), ET-15, and clustered together phylogenetically. Urethral Nm isolates were similar by fine typing (PorA P1.5-1,10-8, PorB 2-2, FetA F3-6), except 2, which had different PorB types (2-78 and 2-52).

Conclusions

Between January and November 2015, 75 urethritis cases due to a distinct Nm clade occurred among primarily black, heterosexual men in Columbus, Ohio. Future urogenital Nm infection studies should focus on pathogenesis and modes of sexual transmission.

[Lower urinary tract infections in men. Urethritis, cystitis and prostatitis]

Recommendations for the treatment of lower non-catheter-related urinary tract infection (UTI) in men are rarely evidence-based. Their management requires the localization of the site of infection, whether it be the urethra, bladder or prostate, and includes antibiotic therapy and in most cases urological assessment. They are often associated with urinary tract procedures or anatomical or functional abnormalities. Nearly 80 % of male UTIs are caused by Enterobacteriaceae. The prevalence of broad-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing strains (ESBL) and quinolone-resistant strains is increasing. The aim of this article is to define three types of lower, non-catheter-related UTI in men - urethritis, cystitis and prostatitis - their microbiology and management in Switzerland.

Prevalence of asymptomatic chlamydial urethritis in military recruits in the Celje region, Slovenia

The aim of this research was to evaluate the prevalence of asymptomatic chlamydial urethritis in military recruits in the Celje region (population 300,000), Slovenia. A first-void urine specimen was tested for Chlamydia trachomatis using the polymerase chain reaction assay. The research was supported by a questionnaire to obtain information on sexual behaviour of the participants.

In the cross-sectional study from 1999 to 2001, 1272 asymptomatic recruits were included. None had received antibiotics in the previous two weeks. The mean age was 19.9 years. At the time of their first sexual experience the mean age was 16.6 years, whereas the age of their female sexual partners was 17.1 years. During their first sexual intercourse 77% of recruits used contraception (condom, diaphragm, contraceptive pill), most of those a condom (86%).

The prevalence of asymptomatic chlamydial urethritis was 2.6% (95% confidence interval: 1.7 to 3.5). The mean age of those infected was 19.8 years. At the time of their first sexual experience the mean age was 16.2 years, whereas the age of their female sexual partners was 16.9 years. During their first sexual intercourse 57% of infected subjects used protection, half of which was a condom. Those who never or only occasionally used condoms were at a greater risk of being infected with C. trachomatis (adjusted odds ratio 2.04).

Mycoplasma genitalium in chronic non-gonococcal urethritis

Seventy-eight men with a history of chronic urethritis were referred for investigation. Of 52 men diagnosed as having persistent or recurrent non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU) at the time of referral, 11 (21%) were infected with Mycoplasma genitalium and three with Chlamydia trachomatis. Men who were M. genitalium-positive had not previously received less antibiotic, in terms of treatment duration, than those who were M. genitalium-negative, suggesting a possible resistance to the antibiotics given.

In the current investigation, of 11 M. genitalium-positive men with persistent or recurrent NGU who were treated for four to six weeks with erythromycin, 500mg four times daily, nine (82%) responded clinically and microbiologically, but later six relapsed without M. genitalium being detected. The results of observing and investigating a patient for about one year, the only one to have concurrent chlamydial and mycoplasmal infections, is presented, a feature being the intermittent persistence of the mycoplasma.

Mycoplasma genitalium is associated with symptomatic urethritis

In order to further investigate the epidemiology of Mycoplasma genitalium, 680 men attending departments of genitourinary medicine in Bristol, Bath and Truro were studied. M. genitalium was detected in 36 men (5.3%) and was present at all three clinics. Clinically, both urethritis and the presence of a urethral discharge and/or dysuria, but not penile irritation were independently associated with the detection of M. genitalium, the former being with the strongest association (odds ratio [OR] 10.76, 95% confidence interval [CI] [3.10–37.29], P < 0.0001; OR 3.01, 95% CI [1.28–7.05], P = 0.011 and OR 1.28, 95% CI [0.61–2.69], P = 0.51, respectively). In men with urethritis, those with a discharge and/or dysuria were more likely to have M. genitalium detected (OR 2.61, 95% CI [1.09–6.25], P = 0.032). We found no association with younger age or a recent change of sexual partner. In conclusion, M. genitalium is associated with symptomatic urethritis.

Surveillance of sexually transmitted diseases in general practice: a description of trends in the Royal College of General Practitioners Weekly Returns Service between 1994 and 2001

This paper describes the incidence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) recorded in the Weekly Returns Service (WRS) between 1994 and 2001. There were approximately 76,500 new diagnoses of STIs (7500 males, 71,000 females) and associated syndromes. Candidiasis was the commonest condition reported in males and females followed by pelvic inflammatory disease. The ratio of males to females was 7.1 for non-specific urethritis, and 9.1 and 2.1 for Reiter's syndrome and pediculosis pubis, respectively. The incidence of anogenital warts and genital herpes changed little over time. New diagnoses of genital herpes were higher in females than in males (ratio 2.8:1), whereas the mean annual incidence of genital warts was similar in males and females. The WRS provides an insight into the burden of STI diagnoses, and diagnoses related to STIs that are managed in general practice, and as such has the potential to make a substantial contribution to STI surveillance in England.

Non-chlamydial non-gonococcal urethritis or undiagnosed chlamydial urethritis?

The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STI) in the partners of men with non-chlamydial, non-gonococcal urethritis (NCNGU).

Observational study of the sexual partners of men with NCNGU diagnosed in the Department of Genitourinary Medicine, Edinburgh between 1 June 2002 and 31 December 2003. The diagnosis of chlamydial infection was based on ligase chain reaction (LCx) between June 2002 and March 2003, and on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) thereafter. Gonococcal infection was diagnosed with culture method.

Sexual partners of 99 (25%) of the 403 heterosexual men diagnosed with NCNGU were screened. Chlamydial infection was detected in 19 (19%) of the female sexual partners. Higher proportion of female partners of symptomatic men (15/51) had chlamydial infection compared with that of partners of asymptomatic men (4/48) ( P < 0.005).

NCNGU may be related to false-negative results of chlamydial diagnostic tests. Screening and treatment of sexual partners of men with NCNGU is therefore necessary.

Notes from the Field: Increase in Neisseria meningitidis-Associated Urethritis Among Men at Two Sentinel Clinics - Columbus, Ohio, and Oakland County, Michigan, 2015

Neisseria meningitidis (Nm) urogenital infections, although less common than infections caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae (Ng), have been associated with urethritis, cervicitis, proctitis, and pelvic inflammatory disease. Nm can appear similar to Ng on Gram stain analysis (gram-negative intracellular diplococci) (1-5). Because Nm colonizes the nasopharynx, men who receive oral sex (fellatio) can acquire urethral Nm infections (1,3,5). This report describes an increase in Nm-associated urethritis in men attending sexual health clinics in Columbus, Ohio, and Oakland County, Michigan.

Evolutionary Events Associated with an Outbreak of Meningococcal Disease in Men Who Have Sex with Men

Meningococci spread via respiratory droplets, whereas the closely related gonococci are transmitted sexually. Several outbreaks of invasive meningococcal disease have been reported in Europe and the United States among men who have sex with men (MSM). We recently identified an outbreak of serogroup C meningococcal disease among MSM in Germany and France. In this study, genomic and proteomic techniques were used to analyze the outbreak isolates. In addition, genetically identical urethritis isolates were recovered from France and Germany and included in the analysis. Genome sequencing revealed that the isolates from the outbreak among MSM and from urethritis cases belonged to a clade within clonal complex 11. Proteome analysis showed they expressed nitrite reductase, enabling anaerobic growth as previously described for gonococci. Invasive isolates from MSM, but not urethritis isolates, further expressed functional human factor H binding protein associated with enhanced survival in a newly developed transgenic mouse model expressing human factor H, a complement regulatory protein. In conclusion, our data suggest that urethritis and outbreak isolates followed a joint adaptation route including adaption to the urogenital tract.

Diagnosing Chlamydia Trachomatis Urinary Tract Infections--Preliminary Report

BACKGROUND

Chlamydia trachomatis is mentioned among the etiologic factors for urinary tract infections. Chlamydias are parasites inside a cell. A very significant problem of C. trachomatis infections is their asymptomatic character. The most frequent infections caused by these bacteria are inflammations of the urethra and bladder; of the vagina, cervix, vaginal cavity and adnexa in women; and of the epididymis, testicles and prostate in men. In the diagnosis of C. trachomatis infections, the following methods are used: immunofluorescent techniques, immunoenzymatic assays, serological examinations and genetic techniques (for example PCR).

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to detect C. trachomatis among patients with symptoms of non-gonorrheal urethritis using diagnostic serologic methods and direct immunofluorescence. The purpose was to assess the connection between the incidence of urinary tract infections caused by C. trachomatis and symptoms that patients report as well as other data from interviews.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Blood serum and urethral smears were taken from each of 57 patients. The ELISA method was used to mark specific IgG and IgGcHSP60 anti-chlamydia antibodies in the blood serum. In the urethral smear, antigens were marked using the direct immunofluorescence method.

RESULTS

Evidence for urinary tract infection caused by C. trachomatis was found in 15.79% of the examined patients using the immunofluorescence method. In the blood serum, positive results for IgGcHSP60 were obtained in 17.54% of the patients and for IgG in 8.77%.

CONCLUSIONS

The studies carried out so far suggest that C. trachomatis has a significant role in the etiology of urethritis in adults and children. Other serological tests should be conducted in all the patients in order to study the immune responses in infected individuals and to confirm C. trachomatis infection using genetic methods such as PCR.

A descriptive study of urethral discharge among men in Fiji

INTRODUCTION

Urethral discharge is a common presentation of sexually transmitted infection (STI) in men and known pathogens include Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis. There are no published data of the burden of urethral discharge among men in Fiji.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate urethral discharge among men to determine the incidence, the frequency of recurrence and reported at-risk behaviour.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective, descriptive study of clinical records of all men presenting with urethral discharge to two major reproductive health clinics. Data collected included self-reported at-risk behaviours, results of abnormal syphilis serology and antibiotics prescribed. The frequency of recurrence in the following 1-2 years of initial presentation was determined along with microbiological findings from urethral swab in this group.

RESULTS

A total of 748 males presented with urethral discharge to the clinic in one year. This represents an incidence rate of at least 295 per 100,000 adult males per year in the study population. Within the next 1-2 years of the initial presentation, 102 (14%) of these re-presented out of which 42 had urethral swab taken for etiological diagnosis. The commonest isolate was Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Results of syphilis tests were available for 560 (75%) of patients and 29 (5%) were positive. Recurrence was not associated with self-reported at-risk behaviours.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of urethral discharge among males in Fiji is very high and prevention strategies are urgently needed.

Armed Forces Health Surveillance Center. Relationships between diagnoses of sexually transmitted infections and urinary tract infections among male service members diagnosed with urethritis, active component, U.S. Armed Forces, 2000-2013

A previous MSMR report found that 42.8% of all incident (first-time) urinary tract infections (UTIs) in males, but only 0.4% of such UTIs in females, were diagnosed as "urethritis, unspecified" (ICD-9: 597.80). This study explored the possibility that many of the diagnoses of urethritis in males represented sexually transmitted infections (STIs), even though ICD-9: 597.80 is explicitly reserved for cases of urethritis that are deemed to not be sexually transmitted. Examined were relationships between diagnoses of urethritis, diagnoses of STIs, and recurrent diagnoses of UTIs. Male service members who received a diagnosis of "urethritis, unspecified" (ICD-9: 597.80) had an increased risk of a subsequent UTI diagnosis, especially of "urethritis, unspecified," compared to all male service members. Most service members who were diagnosed with "urethritis, unspecified" had no documented diagnoses of an STI in their Military Health System health records; however, recurrent UTIs were more common among service members who did have documented STIs. The most commonly diagnosed STIs in this study were "other non-gonococcal urethritis" (which includes that caused by Chlamydia trachomatis) and gonorrhea.

Clinical and microscopic signs of cervicitis and urethritis: correlation with Chlamydia trachomatis infection in female STI patients

Chlamydia trachomatis is among the most prevalent genital infections and is an important cause of tubal factor infertility. The majority of infected females are asymptomatic. Evidence on the reliability of signs of inflammation used to predict chlamydia in female patients is inconsistent. This study examined associations between criteria routinely used in many Scandinavian sexually transmitted infection (STI) clinics and a positive chlamydia test in a high-prevalence population. Clinical and microscopic signs of cervicitis and urethritis were recorded in 99 women attending due to chlamydia infection in a sexual partner. Mucopurulent cervical discharge, easily induced bleeding from the cervix, and more polymorpho-nuclear cells than epithelial cells in vaginal wet smear all correlated significantly with a positive Chlamydia trachomatis test (odds ratios: 3.4, 4.0 and 4.8, respectively). Increased numbers of polymorphonuclear leucocytes (>30 and ≥ 5 respectively) in stained cervical and urethral smears were not significantly correlated with chlamydia infection. Hence, routine collection of cervical and urethral smears in female STI patients is questionable.

Prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility of Ureaplasma urealyticum and Mycoplasma hominis in a population of Italian and immigrant outpatients

Ureaplasma urealyticum and Mycoplasma hominis are associated with non-gonococcal urethritis, increased risk of recurrent miscarriage, infertility and pelvic inflammatory disease. Migration flows from other countries change the local epidemiological profile of infectious diseases of patients treated by general practitioners and hospital doctors. Few studies have evaluated this ever-changing issue in the Italian population. The aim of this study was to assess possible differences in prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility of U. urealyticum and M. hominis in a population of 433 Italian and immigrant outpatients by means of the commercially available MYCOFAST(®) Screening EvolutioN 3 Kit. Prevalence of positive samples was 44.5% in Italian patients and 53.4% in immigrants. Samples positive for U. urealyticum and total isolates were more frequent in African patients: U. urealyticum, 51.5% vs 33.3%; Yates-corrected chi-square=3.98; p=0.046; total isolates, 54.5% vs 34.3%; Yates-corrected chi-square=4.45; p=0.035. Among samples positive for U. urealyticum, 66.4% were resistant to ciprofloxacin, whereas 27.6% to ofloxacin. In M. hominis isolates, 66.7% were resistant to both azythromycin and roxythromycin. Our study showed how prevalence of genital mycoplasmas and antibiotic resistance profiles change in relation to the country of origin. Therefore, surveillance is critical for the early cure and prevention of the occurrence of resistant strains.

Frequency of Chlamydia trachomatis among male patients with urethritis in northeast of Iran detected by polymerase chain reaction

Planning for appropriate preventive measures against Chlamydia trachomatis, a common cause of sexually transmitted disease, requires knowledge of prevalence of infection so that interventions can be targeted in a cost-effective manner. This study was performed on 178 male patients presenting with urethritis in the Mashhad province to determine the prevalence of chlamydial infection in Northeast Iran. A cotton swab and first voided urine specimen were collected according to standard procedures. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests were used for the detection of C. trachomatis in the specimens collected and the results were analyzed using SPSS program. Results showed that 10.6% of male patients in this group were infected with C. trachomatis. This study provides strong evidence that prevalence of Chlamydia in the Northeast Iran is high and suggests that Chlamydia screening as a routine part of STD investigations is highly necessary in this area.

[About the diagnostic significance of asymptomatic bacteriuria among the conscripts]

For determinination of the significance of asymptomatic bacteriuria (AB) among the conscripts in the North was performed a comparative study of 101 volunteers who had no complaints and urinary tract infection (UTI) and a history of 206 patients treated at the stationary UTI. Diagnostically important AB in soldiers was 3% and corresponded to inflammation of the urethra and prostate. Negative impact of subextreme conditions of service in the development of AB from the soldiers in the 12 months has not been established. AB in young men in 27% of such cases was accompanied by leukocyturia, in 36% with bacteriuria, determined by the overall analysis of urine, which is a comprehensive method of identifying the primary UTI.

Idiopathic urethritis in young men in the United States: prevalence and comparison to infections with known sexually transmitted pathogens

PURPOSE

Urethritis is the most common male reproductive tract disease syndrome; yet 20-50% of diagnosed cases have no defined etiology, and few population-level data exist on the prevalence or etiology of the syndrome. We estimated the prevalence of urethritis among young men in the United States and compared correlates of idiopathic cases to correlates of detected infections with sexually transmitted pathogens.

METHODS

Questionnaire data and urine specimens from 5,447 men aged 18-27 years participating in Wave III of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health were analyzed. Symptomatic urethritis was defined as self-reported dysuria or urethral discharge in the past 24hours. Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, Trichomonas vaginalis, and Mycoplasma genitalium were identified using nucleic acid amplification tests. Idiopathic urethritis (IU) was defined as urethral symptoms in the absence of these four pathogens. Stratified weighted analyses generated population-based estimates.

RESULTS

Urethritis was reported by 1.2% (95% CI=.8-1.6%) of men, of whom 82.4% (61.1-93.3%) had IU. Men with previous STD diagnoses (aOR=9.3 [95% CI=3.0-28.7]), or fewer (1-4) or no lifetime vaginal sex partners (aOR=7.5 [2.9-19.3] and aOR=7.2 [1.9-27.4]), were more likely to have IU compared with men without urethral symptoms or identified pathogens, whereas men of Native American or Asian/Pacific Islander descent (aOR=.04 [.01-.2]) and heavy drinkers (aOR=.08 [.03-.2]) were less likely to have IU. Unlike infection with known pathogens, IU was not associated with black race, Hispanic ethnicity, or age at sexual debut.

CONCLUSIONS

Urethral symptoms were rarely associated with known pathogens. IU and known pathogens were associated with distinct characteristics.

[Diagnosis of urethritis in men. A 3-year review]

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study is to know the prevalence and tendency of microorganisms producing urethritis, in men, in the City Centre of Madrid.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study. The urethral samples of 1.248 men were analyzed, for 3 years. The samples were studied for: GRAM stain, when secretion exists; culture in habitual plates; detection of C. trachomatis, U. urealyticum and M. hominis, when there was suspicious, study of T. vaginalis and when suspicious injuries exist, study of virus Herpes simplex.

RESULTS

The percentage of positive samples was 22.60%. The isolated microorganisms were: U. urealyticum 7.61%, N. gonorrhoeae 6.33%, C. trachomatis 4.81%, M. hominis 0.24%, H. parainfluenzae 1.76%, H. influenzae 1.12%, Candida spp 0.48%, S. pyogenes 0.16% and Herpes virus simplex (2) 0.08%. Two or more microorganisms were isolated in 1.68%. The percentage of positive samples in 2003 was 17.41% and N. gonorrhoeae the most frequent microorganism (6.22%). In 2004 was 25.57% and the most frequent U. urealyticum (10.18%). In 2005 the 24.50% of the samples were positive and U. urealyticum the most frequent (7.92%). The 79.41% of N. gonorrhoeae were susceptible to all antibiotics tested. It is not found resistance to ceftriaxone, claritromicine and amoxicilline/clavulanic acid. The 11.76% were betalactamase- producing. The 26.47% of Haemophilus spp. were betalactamase- producing and all strains were susceptible to cefotaxime.

CONCLUSIONS

The isolated microorganisms most frequently were: U. urealyticum, N. gonorrhoeae and C. trachomatis. There is an increase of 7% of prevalence between the years 2003 and 2005. Ceftriaxone, claritromicine and amoxicilline/clavulanic acid were susceptible to all the strains studied and cefotaxime to all Haemophilus spp.

Association of genital mycoplasmas including Mycoplasma genitalium in HIV infected men with nongonococcal urethritis attending STD & HIV clinics

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE

Acute nongonococcal urethritis (NGU) is one of the commonest sexually transmitted infections affecting men. The role of genital mycoplasmas including Mycoplasma genitalium in HIV infected men with NGU is still not known. The aim of this study was to determine the isolation pattern/detection of genital mycoplasma including M. genitalium in HIV infected men with NGU and to compare it with non HIV infected individuals.

METHODS

One hundred male patients with NGU (70 HIV positive, 30 HIV negative) were included in the study. Urethral swabs and urine samples obtained from patients were subjected to semi-quantitative culture for Mycoplasma hominis and Ureaplasama urealyticum, whereas M. genitalium was detected by PCR from urine. The primers MgPa1 and MgPa3 were selected to identify 289 bp product specific for M. genitalium. Chalmydia trachomatis antigen detection was carried out by ELISA.

RESULTS

M. genitalium and M. hominis were detected/isolated in 6 per cent of the cases. M. genitalium was more common amongst HIV positive cases (7.1%) as compared to HIV negative cases (3.3%) but difference was not statistically significant. Co-infection of C. trachomatis and U. urealyticum was found in two HIV positive cases whereas, C. trachomatis and M. hominis were found to be coinfecting only one HIV positive individual. M. genitalium was found to be infecting the patients as the sole pathogen.

INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSION

Patients with NGU had almost equal risk of being infected with M. genitalium, U. urealyticum or M. hominis irrespective of their HIV status. M.genitalium constitutes one of the important causes of NGU besides other genital mycoplasmas.

[Male urethritis in general practice. STDs more common at a younger age]

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the incidence of urethritis in men in Dutch general practice, the applied diagnostic procedures in relation to existing guidelines, and the underlying causes.

DESIGN

Descriptive.

METHOD

The incidence of urethritis in the period 1998-2007 was calculated from data received from 45 GP sentinel stations. The network of participating general practices is nationally representative of age, sex and geographical distribution, and of distribution between town and countryside. From 2004 to 2007 additional questionnaires for each patient were filled in by the general practitioner, and were analysed for applied diagnostics and final diagnosis.

RESULTS

From 1998-2003 the incidence of urethritis increased from 17 to 25 per 10,000 men and decreased to 20 per 10,000 men in 2007. The highest incidence of urethritis was found in urban areas and in the 15-34 years age group. Penile discharge was reported in 82% of the men for whom a questionnaire was filled out. In 10% of the men without discharge the first voided urine sediment was assessed for the presence of leucocytes. Diagnostic tests were generally carried out on urethral smears and sometimes on urine samples. 10.5% of the men were not tested. In 76% of men both gonorrhoea and Chlamydia were tested and found to be positive in 11% and 28% respectively. The remaining cases (62%) were defined as non-specific urethritis, in which in the majority no microbiological pathogen was identified. Urethritis was more often caused by gonorrhoea and/or Chlamydia in younger men, while it was more often diagnosed as non-specific urethritis in older men.

CONCLUSION

One third of men with urethritis who underwent laboratory tests had a Chlamydia or gonorrhoea infection. In the majority of cases no pathogen was identified. Compliance with the diagnostic guidelines for urethritis may be improved by more frequent testing of first voided urine samples.

Prevalence of genital Chlamydia in Iranian males with urethritis attending clinics in Mashhad

Chlamydia trachomatis is a common cause of sexually transmitted disease which can cause severe consequences. Effective prevention requires knowledge of prevalence of infection in order to target interventions in a cost-effective manner. To determine the prevalence of chlamydial infection in Mashhad, northeastern Islamic Republic of Iran, this study was performed among male patients with urethritis. Urethral discharge was collected from 150 patients. Cell culture was established for diagnosis of Chlamydia in genital specimens. Cell culture showed that 9.3% of patients in this study were infected with Chlamydia. This study provides strong evidence that prevalence of Chlamydia in our region is quite high, which necessitates screening and treatment for the infection.

Role of Mycoplasma genitalium and Ureaplasma urealyticum in non-gonococcal urethritis in Hong Kong

OBJECTIVE

To determine the association of Mycoplasma genitalium and Ureaplasma urealyticum in symptomatic male patients presenting with non-gonococcal urethritis in a sexually transmitted infection clinic in Hong Kong.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

SETTING

A sexually transmitted infection clinic, Department of Health, Centre for Health Protection, Hong Kong.

PATIENTS

A cohort of consecutive new male patients attending the government sexually transmitted infection clinic.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Prevalence of Mycoplasma genitalium and Ureaplasma urealyticum among symptomatic male patients with non-gonococcal urethritis and asymptomatic patients without non-gonococcal urethritis.

RESULTS

Specimens of 22 and 10 patients tested positive by polymerase chain reaction for Ureaplasma urealyticum and Mycoplasma genitalium respectively, among the symptomatic non-gonococcal urethritis group (n=98). In the asymptomatic control group (n=236), corresponding patient numbers whose specimens tested positive were 47 and 5. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups, in terms of the proportion of patients infected with Mycoplasma genitalium (P=0.799) or Ureaplasma urealyticum (P=0.535).

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, demonstration of Mycoplasma genitalium and Ureaplasma urealyticum by polymerase chain reaction was not associated with symptomatic non-gonococcal urethritis in male patients attending a Hong Kong government clinic for sexually transmitted infections.