Chlamydia trachomatis infection occurs primarily among young sexually active persons. Few studies have evaluated the kinetics of markers of infection in male adolescents after their first sexual contact.
Primary C trachomatis infection in 4 young male adolescents after their first sexual contact was diagnosed by polymerase chain reaction and antigen detection in sequential first voiding urine and urethral specimens, respectively. Serial serum samples were assessed for the presence of specific IgA and IgG antibodies.
Both polymerase chain reaction and antigen detection correctly identified all cases of primary C trachomatis infection. The polymerase chain reaction method was, however, an earlier marker of infection. Three patients were seronegative at presentation. Two of these subsequently seroconverted to either IgA or IgG, while the third remains seronegative. The time interval from onset of symptoms to seroconversion ranged from 10 to 25 days.
Although polymerase chain reaction and antigen and serologic detection have previously been described in primary C trachomatis infection, this report documents the variability of these markers during the first phase of infection in non–sexually active young male adolescents. C trachomatis can be acquired by male adolescents after their first sexual contact; however, there is a prolonged period when the patient is seronegative, yet infections can occur.