Serological testing for Chlamydia pneumoniae is used to diagnose atypical pneumonia and other infections caused by these microorganisms.
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Members of the family Chlamydiaceae are tiny, non-motile, Gram-negative, obligate intracellular organisms that grow in the cytoplasm of host cells. Two genera of chlamydia are of clinical importance to humans: the genus Chlamydia, which includes the species Chlamydia trachomatis, and the genus Chlamydophila, which consists of the species Chlamydophila pneumoniae and Chlamydophila psittaci. These organisms share many characteristics with microbes and are susceptible to antibiotic treatment, resembling viruses in that they require living cells for their multiplication.
The life cycle of chlamydia can be divided into two distinct phases: an extracellular phase, during which they do not multiply and are infectious, and an obligate intracellular phase, during which they multiply and are non-infectious. The infectious form, or elementary particle, attaches to the cell membrane and enters the cell through a phagosome. After entering the cells, the elementary particle reorganizes into reticulate bodies (forming inclusions) and begins to multiply. After 18 to 24 hours, the reticulate bodies condense to form elementary particles. These new elementary bodies are released, starting a new cycle of infection.
The species Chlamydophila pneumoniae (formerly known as Chlamydia pneumoniae) causes infections of the respiratory system that are usually mild. Chlamydia pneumoniae is pathogenic exclusively for humans and is transmitted by droplets. It can cause influenza-like illness, sinusitis, pharyngitis, bronchitis, and atypical pneumonia. Clinically, asymptomatic infections are common. Respiratory tract infections are probably the most common of all chlamydial infections. Chlamydophila pneumoniae is responsible for approximately 10% of pneumonia cases.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most critical parameter for diagnosing and monitoring all pathological conditions. Between 70 to 80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. Correctly interpreting laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased."
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be analyzed based on each case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon, we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and contact your doctor to ensure you receive the best possible medical care.
