Evidence-based guidelines for the management of genital chlamydial infection in general practice

Background. Valid clinical guidelines can be effective in improving patient care. Genital Chlamydia trachomatis infection is the commonest curable sexually transmitted disease (STD) in England and Wales and is an important cause of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), tubal infertility and ectopic pregnancy. No published guidelines exist on managing genital chlamydial infection in British general practice. Objective. We aimed to develop valid guidelines for the management of genital chlamydial infection for use in British general practice. Methods. A district-wide postal questionnaire survey was used to document current clinical practice. A critical review of the evidence concerning the management of genital chlamydial infection as it relates to British general practice was performed. The information gained from the critical review and survey was used to develop evidence-based guidelines within a multidisciplinary guideline recommendation group. Results. The guidelines covered the diagnosis, investigation, drug treatment and referral of adult male and female patients with genital chlamydial infection in general practice. Conclusion. Valid guidelines for the management of genital chlamydial infection have been developed for use in British general practice. Appropriate dissemination and implementation of the guidelines should lead to earlier detection and treatment of men and women with chlamydial infection and thereby reduce the incidence of PID, tubal infertility and ectopic pregnancy in women.