Gonorrhoea and chlamydia trachomatis

Question 1

Characteristics of Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia

Answer 1

Gonorrhoea is a gram negative cocci, chlamydia is a obligate intracellular parasite

Question 2

Diseases caused by Gonorrhoea and chlamydia

Answer 2

Gonorrhoea: differing types of gonorrhoea depending on sex and age (in notes)
Chlamydia: chlamydia, different types depending on sex, more asymptomatic in woman

Question 3

Virulence factors of gonorrhoea

Answer 3

Pili, LOS, Tbp, Por, Opa (same as meningitides except without anti-phagocytic/adhesive capsules, PorA, Opc)

Question 4

Pathogenesis - Gonorrhoea

Answer 4

Invades through epithelial cell and exits through basolateral surface. It will then discharge into sub-epithelial connective tissue and will force a heavy inflammatory response causing major symptoms. Porins and LOS help aid survival through serum resistance. Gonorrhea undergoes antigenic variation and phase variation meaning that new strains are not recognised.

Question 5

Pathogenesis of Chlamydia

Answer 5

Chlamydia can only infect a limited range of cells, causing direct destruction of host cells as well as inflammatory response. It binds to receptors on non-ciliated epithelial cells and will invade the cell and multiply inside until it bursts out. It has antibiotic resistance, can survive in nutrient deficiency and survive cytokine pressures.

Question 6

How is Gonorrhea and Chlamydia detected?

Answer 6

Gonorrhea: urine samples
Chlamydia: epithelium swab, PCR of urine

Question 7

How is Gonorrhea and Chlamydia treated?

Answer 7

Antibiotics