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. 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.

A chronic chlamydia pneumoniae infection can be treated with antibiotics.

Testing
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. . Common tests for chlamydia pneumoniae include the microimmunofluorescence (MIF) test or via biopsy.

Treatment
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. 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

 * 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

 * Dr. Stratton's original protocol
 * CPN Help Website
 * CPN Help: The Basics
 * Chlamydia pneumoniae infection a treatable cause of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Response (BMJ)