Complications

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Diagnose, behandeling, opvolging en doorverwijzing van infecties met Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) in de eerste lijnPublished by: Werkgroep Ontwikkeling Richtlijnen Eerste Lijn (Worel)Last published: 2025Diagnostic, traitement, suivi et renvoi des infections à Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) en soins primairesPublished by: Groupe de Travail Développement de recommmandations de première ligneLast published: 2025
Complication
Timeframe
Likelihood
short term
low

More common in men aged 35 years and younger but still low likelihood.[49]​ The infection ascends through the cord structures. The testicle can also be involved (orchitis).

Acute epididymitis

short term
low

About 3% to 8% of infected patients will develop reactive arthritis.[50][51][52]

Reactive arthritis

short term
low

Newborns may contract conjunctivitis from their infected mother during delivery. There is conflicting data on the efficacy of neonatal eye prophylaxis.[53]

short term
low

Newborns may contract pneumonia from their infected mother during delivery.

Chlamydia pneumoniae infection

long term
medium

A single infection increases the risk for ectopic pregnancy.[47]

Ectopic pregnancy

long term
low

Infection is associated with an increased risk of tubal factor infertility.[5][48]

Infertility in women

long term
low

There is evidence to suggest that Chlamydia trachomatis infections increase the risk of cervical cancer. The risk is increased in those patients with associated human papillomavirus infections.[54]

Cervical cancer

variable
low

The risk of PID is low if the infection is treated appropriately, but rises if left untreated.

Pelvic inflammatory disease

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