Chlamydia

Chlamydia trachomatis is an obligate intracellular gram-negative bacterium that infects columnar epithelial cells through a unique biphasic developmental cycle. Elementary bodies (infectious form) attach to and enter host cells, converting to reticulate bodies (replicative form) within inclusion vacuoles. After replication, they convert back to elementary bodies and lyse the cell. This cycle triggers mucosal inflammation, recruitment of neutrophils, and potential scarring. Ascending infection from the cervix to the upper reproductive tract causes pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), salpingitis, and tubo-ovarian abscess, leading to infertility and ectopic pregnancy. The nurse coordinates comprehensive screening, manages treatment protocols, provides partner notification counseling, and monitors for complications.