Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) is a gram-negative bacterium that causes chlamydia, one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the world. Chlamydia infection is a significant public health concern due to its high prevalence and potential complications if left untreated.

The majority of CT cases do not present with symptoms, making management of these bacterial infections a challenge. Undiagnosed and untreated, CT may result in complications that affect the urethra, cervix, uterus, and prostate. CT is also a known cause of tubal factor infertility. Chlamydia is generally curable with existing, effective single-dose regimens of antibiotics, but has shown early signs of resistance. Diagnostic testing is an important strategic tool to help mitigate the impact of the disease, and manage the potential consequences from a drug-resistant form of the bacteria.

The replication of CT in infected host cells is varied and often low, requiring a high sensitivity approach to obtain a reliable result. Thus, Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT) using molecular polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology are used as the diagnostic gold standard for chlamydia detection. The enhanced sensitivity provides better accuracy which not only helps to reduce the prevalence but also improves understanding of the infection.