Detection of genital mycoplasmas in men attending medical clinics in Sofia, Bulgaria

Abstract

PURPOSE: The role of Ureaplasma urealyticum (U. urealyticum), Mycoplasma hominis (M. hominis) and Mycoplasma genitalium (M. genitalium) in male genital disorders deserves a more intensive research. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence rate of these pathogens in symptomatic and asymptomatic sexually active males in Bulgaria. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 260 symptomatic and asymptomatic men were included in the study. Their urethral swabs were examined for the presence of the mentioned microorganisms by using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). RESULTS: The prevalence rates of these pathogens were the following: U. urealyticum-4,6%; M. hominis-0,8%, and M. genitalium-3,1%. No coinfections were registered at all. CONCLUSION: The present investigation of these mycoplasmas is the first attempt to provide certain epidemiological information about these infections in Bulgaria. Their continuous monitoring is of practical importance for public health.