Accurate detection of male subclinical genital tract infection via cervical culture and DNA hybridization assay of the female partner

The accuracy of the PACE2 DNA hybridization assay of the cervix and cervical culture in female partners for the diagnosis of male subclinical genital tract infection were assessed in a male infertility population. A total of 184 men were screened for the presence of Chlamydia trachomatis, Ureaplasma urealyticum and Mycoplasma hominis. Seventy-one men were identified with a positive test for one or more of the above mentioned micro-organisms. The overall prevalence of bacterial infection was 39%. Female partners of all men were tested with the PACE2 DNA hybridization assay to detect a C. trachomatis infection. Sensitivity was 100% and specificity was 100%. In 67 female partners (94%) of men who tested positive for U. urealyticum and/or M. hominis, a cervical swab culture was performed. The sensitivity of the cervical swab culture was 100%. In view of the high prevalence of U. urealyticum and M. hominis in the male genital tract and the role these sexually transmitted pathogens may play in infertility, one might question whether all couples should be screened for the presence of these pathogens. Transurethral swab culture after digital prostatic massage is disincentive to men. The cervical culture in their female partner, performed as part of the routine fertility work-up, is a suitable alternative to detect the presence of these micro-organisms in the male genital tract