Study of the management of chlamydial cervicitis in general practice.

The role of the general practitioner in the detection and management of Chlamydia trachomatis infections of the cervix is uncertain. The management by the primary care team of women presenting with lower genital tract symptoms has therefore been studied in one suburban practice. Of 386 women presenting with lower genital tract symptoms over the two year study period 25 (6%) had a positive cervical MicroTrak (Syva) test for Chlamydia trachomatis. Twenty four of these chlamydia positive patients were given their results and treatment by the practice. Twenty two women returned for a follow-up MicroTrak test after treatment and two of these patients (9%) had a positive test following treatment. A review of the patients' notes indicated that contact tracing had been discussed with 22 of the 25 chlamydia positive patients. The results of the management of chlamydial cervicitis by this primary health care team are acceptable when compared with studies from hospital clinics. Provided the primary care team has access to facilities for the diagnosis of C trachomatis and can follow up non-attenders to ensure they receive their results, provide information about contact tracing and follow up positive patients then chlamydial cervicitis can be managed in general practice.