CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF UROGENITAL UREAPLASMAS, JUSTIFICATION OF DIAGNOSTICS AND TREATMENT

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Laboratorinė medicina. 2024,
t. 26,
Nr. 4,
p. 201 -
204

Summary

Background. Ureaplasma species are commonly found in the genital tract, but their clinical significance remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical significance of urogenital ureaplasmas, determining their role in cervicitis and male non-gonococcal urethritis, and defining the necessity of diagnostic and treatment approaches.

Material and methods. The study reviewed clinical trials, meta-analyses, and case-control studies examining the links between Ureaplasma species and cervicitis, male non-gonococcal urethritis, and the need for diagnostic and treatment approaches. The literature search was conducted using international databases to ensure a comprehensive and representative review of the studies.

Results. Ureaplasma species are frequently detected in women with nonspecific cervicitis, but their pathogenicity is unconfirmed. These microorganisms may contribute to cervicitis pathogenesis, influenced by the host's immune system and coexisting infections. Ureaplasma urealyticum is frequently detected in men with acute and chronic non-gonococcal urethritis, with high concentrations potentially linked to inflammatory processes in the urethra. The pathogenicity of Ureaplasma parvum in male urethritis is unclear and is considered significant only at high concentrations.

Conclusions. Current scientific data are insufficient to definitively confirm the pathogenic role of Ureaplasma species in cervicitis and non-gonococcal urethritis in men. Diagnosis and treatment should be limited to patients with clear clinical symptoms. This targeted approach helps avoid unnecessary antibiotics, reduces antimicrobial resistance risk, and ensures more effective treatment.

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