[Chlamydia trachomatis--a possible cause of premature labor].

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of urogenital infection with Chlamydia trachomatis in patients with preterm delivery in relation to those with term delivery.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

The investigation included a random sample of 116 parturients. Direct immunofluorescence (DIF) test was used to diagnose Chlamydia trachomatis.

RESULTS

In the investigated group (N = 53), positive finding of Chlamydia trachomatis in the urogenital tract was established in 6 (11.32%) patients in cervix and in 5 (9.43%) patients in the urethra, whereas in the control group there were 3 (4.76%) positive findings in the cervix and 1 (1.59%) in the urethra. The control group included patients with term delivery (N = 63).

DISCUSSION AND

CONCLUSION

Results of investigation point to the necessity of diagnostics and treatment of Chlamydia trachomatis in prevention of preterm delivery, particularly in women with previous unsuccessful pregnancies.