Prevalence of Mycoplasma genitalium in Teenagers of Southeast Michigan
Background and Significance:
Infection with Mycoplasma genitalium, a gram negative bacteria, first discovered in the 1980’s, is linked to an increased susceptibility to HIV infection and numerous urogenital pathologies in both sexes. Symptoms resemble those of Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis, and infection can be asymptomatic. Despite a prevalence that is greater than N. gonorroheae and comparable to C. trachomatis, cases of infection from Mycoplasma genitalium often go undiagnosed and untreated. Unfortunately, Mycoplasma genitalium does not respond to the antibiotics used to treat Neisseria gonorrhoeae or Chlamydia trachomatis, so many suffer from the effects of a chronic infection. Estimates of the prevalence of M. genitalium among teenagers and young adults are few; we propose to fill this gap.
Hypothesis:
We hypothesize that 1-3% of patients we observe will be infected regardless of symptomology, and that prevalence is associated with rate of partner change.
Specific Aims:
The primary aims of this study are to:
1. Identify the prevalence of Mycoplasma genitalium infection within 500 13-19 year olds from Washtenaw County who attend The Corner Health Center in Ypsilanti, Michigan, and socio-demographic and behavioral correlates of that prevalence.
2. Describe the macrolide antibiotic sensitivities among samples positive for Mycoplasma genitalium. This will aide in local treatment decisions.