Is Chlamydia trachomatis associated with dyskaryotic cervical cytology? Results of a prospective population-based study

Summary

Abnormal cervical cytology has been associated with vaginal infection with a variety of organisms, that most commonly implicated is chlamydia trachomatis, We undertook a prospective population study of 505 consecutive women attending clinics for routine cervical smears, when an endocervical swab was also obtained for chlamydia testing. Multivariate analysis demonstrated a significant relationship between chlamydial infection and inadequate cervical cytology due to excessive numbers of polymorphonuclear cells, young age and single status. We recommend that women with inadequate cervical cytology due to excess polymorphonuclear cells should be screened for chlamydial infection and treated with appropriate antimicrobial agents prior to a repeat cervical smear.