Clinical Signs and Symptoms in Sexually Transmitted Infections Confirmed by Multiplex PCR: Practical Tips for Clinicians

Authors : Mehmet Ezer, İsmet Bilger Erihan, Samet Kırat, Gülfem Nur Yıldız, Murat Karameşe
Pages : 737-746
Doi:10.5798/dicletip.1840708
View : 44 | Download : 141
Publication Date : 2025-12-12
Article Type : Research Paper
Abstract :Objective: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) pose significant global health challenges due to their often-asymptomatic nature and associated complications. In urological practice, early and accurate diagnosis is essential to prevent sequelae such as chronic prostatitis, urethral strictures, and infertility. Molecular diagnostic methods, particularly Multiplex PCR, offer rapid and sensitive detection of multiple pathogens. Methods: This retrospective study included 194 patients who presented with urogenital symptoms to the Urology and Obstetrics-Gynecology outpatient clinics of a tertiary care university hospital. Urethral and cervical/vaginal swab samples were collected and analyzed using a Multiplex PCR panel targeting 12 STI pathogens. Demographic and clinical data were recorded, and statistical analysis was performed to evaluate symptom-pathogen correlations. Results: Of the participants, 73.2% were male, with a mean age of 43 years. Multiplex PCR detected at least one pathogen in 40.2% of cases, with Ureaplasma parvum, Gardnerella vaginalis, and Haemophilus ducreyi being the most common. Significant correlation was found between some clinical symptoms and PCR positivity. A considerable proportion of positive cases were asymptomatic, highlighting the limitations of symptom-based diagnosis. Conclusion: Multiplex PCR significantly enhances diagnostic accuracy in STI management within urology. Early molecular detection enables targeted therapy, reduces unnecessary antibiotic use, and helps prevent long-term complications. The high rate of asymptomatic infections underscores the necessity for routine molecular screening, especially in high-risk populations. Further research should focus on expanding diagnostic panels and evaluating the cost-effectiveness of molecular testing strategies.
Keywords : Cinsel yolla bulaşan enfeksiyonlar, Multiplex PCR, Ureaplasma parvum, Gardnerella vaginalis

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