Diagnostic Value of Polymerase Chain Reaction in Patients with Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome: using Semen as a Specimen / 대한비뇨기과학회지

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Specific microorganisms, such as Chlamydia and Mycoplasma, are rarely detected in chronic pelvic pain syndrome, but fastidious and non-culturable microorganisms may be important in its etiology. The objective of this study was to evaluate the usefulness and significance of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in the diagnosis of the etiologies of chronic pelvic pain syndrome, especially using semen as a specimen. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between August 2005 and July 2006, 237 patients, with a mean age of 39 years (range 25-67 years), were evaluated for chronic pelvic pain syndrome. PCR testing of the semen was performed in all cases to establish the persistence of C. trachomatis, T. vaginalis, M. hominis, M. genitalium and U. urealyticum. RESULTS: Of the 237 patients, 79 (33.3%) and 158 (66.7%) were categories IIIa and IIIb, respectively. On PCR, using semen, 18 (22.8%) of the 79 category IIIa and 26 (16.5%) of the 158 category IIIb cases were found to have positive PCRs for the causative microorganisms of CPPS. In a total of 53 isolates presenting positive PCR, the common causative microorganisms were U. urealyticum, C. trachomatis, M. genitalium, T. vaginalis and M. hominis in 23 (43.4%), 16 (30.1%), 11 (20.8%), 2 (3.8%) and 1 case (1.9%), respectively. CONCLISIONS PCR is revolutionizing the diagnosis of many infectious diseases, particularly those caused by microorganisms that are difficult to cultivate. Moreover, PCR shows nearly 100% accuracy in terms of sensitivity and specificity. PCR using semen, which can detect various microorganisms suggestive of the etiologies of chronic pelvic pain syndrome, is expected to play an important role in the diagnosis, treatment and follow up of chronic pelvic pain syndrome in urology.