Chlamydia pneumoniae
Chlamydia pneumoniae is an intracellular bacterium of the species Chlamydophila, and can infect via airborne transmission. It is a major cause of pneumonia.[1] It has been implicated as a potential cause of ME/CFS in a subset of patients. A study by Chia & Chia found that 10% of their patients had a chlamydia pneumoniae infection which may have caused or contributed to their ME/CFS.[2]
A chronic chlamydia pneumoniae infection can be treated with antibiotics.
Testing[edit | edit source]
Accurately testing for chlamydia pneumoniae can be difficult, therefore, a negative blood test may not mean you do not have a chlamydia pneumoniae infection. Additionally, there is a general shortage worldwide of facilities which can identify/diagnose Chlamydia pneumoniae.[3]. Common tests for chlamydia pneumoniae include the microimmunofluorescence (MIF) test[4] or via biopsy.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
A chlamydia pneumoniae infection, while an uncommon cause of ME/CFS, is one of the more treatable forms. Antibiotic treatment with azithromycin or rifampin can therefore improve or even cure patients. Chia & Chia found that while antibiotic treatment was successful in many patients, relapse was also common.[2] Some patients have reported recovery after being treated with Dr Stratton's original protocol. More information on treatment options can be found on CPN Help's Treatment Protocols page.
Notable studies[edit | edit source]
- Chia, J K ; Chia, L Y Chronic Chlamydia pneumoniae Infection: A Treatable Cause of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Clinical infectious Diseases, August 1999, Vol.29(2), pp.452-3. DOI: 10.1086/520239
Learn More[edit | edit source]
- Dr. Stratton's original protocol
- CPN Help Website
- CPN Help: The Basics
- Chlamydia pneumoniae infection a treatable cause of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Response (BMJ)