Use of monoclonal antibodies in the diagnosis of chlamydial urethritis and cervicitis

Isolation of Chlamydia trachomatis (C. trachomatis) in cell culture is the most reliable method for the diagnosis of chlamydial infections. The results are obtained in 48-72 hours. We have produced anti-chlamydial monoclonal antibodies (McAb) and by means of indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) we have developed a rapid diagnostic test. Sixty-six patients, 34 males seen for subacute urethritis authenticated by the presence of polymorphonuclear cells on urethral smears and 32 females presenting with leucorrhea were included in the study. The specimens obtained from urethra and cervix were inoculated on Hela 229 cells for isolation of C. trachomatis. A similar specimen was placed in normal saline containing 2% fetal calf serum. 50 microliters of the saline solution were then placed in wells in IF slides, dried at 37 degrees C and fixed for 30 minutes in acetone at -20 degrees C. Anti-chlamydial McAb and fluorescein labelled mouse anti IgG were used for the rapid IIF test. From 34 cases, we have isolated C. trachomatis from the urethra of 19 males. In these 19 cases, most of the polymorphonuclear cells demonstrated a brilliant cytoplasma revealing the presence of chlamydial antigens. In 25 other cases without isolation, the rapid diagnostic test was positive twice. From the 32 females, C. trachomatis was isolated 7 times. In these 7 cases, the rapid diagnosis IIF test was positive with the same characteristics as noted in the male population. In the 25 other cases without isolation, the test was positive 3 times.