From the Guidelines
Chlamydia in men often presents with no symptoms, but when symptoms do occur, they may include urethritis, epididymitis, and proctitis, as well as uncommon complications like reactive arthritis and disseminated gonococcal infection 1.
Symptoms of Chlamydia in Males
The symptoms of Chlamydia in males can vary, but common symptoms include:
- A burning sensation during urination
- White, cloudy, or watery discharge from the penis
- Pain or swelling in one or both testicles
- Rectal pain, discharge, or bleeding if the infection affects the rectum
Importance of Screening and Treatment
It is essential to note that Chlamydia is often asymptomatic in men, which is why regular screening is recommended for sexually active men, especially those with multiple partners 1. Treatment requires antibiotics, and it is crucial to complete the entire course of antibiotics even if symptoms resolve earlier. Sexual partners should also be treated to prevent reinfection, and sexual activity should be avoided until both partners complete treatment.
Complications of Untreated Chlamydia
If left untreated, Chlamydia can lead to complications like epididymitis (inflammation of the tube that carries sperm) and potentially affect fertility 1. Additionally, Chlamydia can facilitate HIV transmission in men and women.
Key Points to Consider
- Chlamydia is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis and is transmitted through unprotected sexual contact
- Regular screening is recommended for sexually active men, especially those with multiple partners
- Treatment requires antibiotics, and it is crucial to complete the entire course of antibiotics even if symptoms resolve earlier
- Sexual partners should also be treated to prevent reinfection, and sexual activity should be avoided until both partners complete treatment
From the Research
Symptoms of Chlamydia in Males
- The symptoms of Chlamydia trachomatis infection in males can include dysuria and a discharge from the penis 2
- Untreated chlamydial infection in men can spread to the epididymis 2
- Some men with chlamydial infection may be asymptomatic, with more than 85% of men with rectal chlamydia infection being asymptomatic 3
- Rectal chlamydia can cause symptoms such as discharge, pain, or bleeding in the rectum, but many men with rectal chlamydia are asymptomatic 4, 3
- Chlamydial infection can also cause urethral symptoms such as discharge or dysuria 5
Diagnosis and Treatment
- Diagnosis of chlamydial infection can be made using nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) on urine or swab specimens 5
- Treatment options for uncomplicated urogenital chlamydial infections include a single 1-g dose of azithromycin or a 7-day course of doxycycline 2, 5
- Doxycycline may be more effective than azithromycin in the treatment of rectal chlamydial infections 4, 3
- Screening for chlamydial infection is recommended for all sexually active men who have sex with men, as well as for women under 25 years old and those with risk factors 2, 5