A new diagnostic index for predicting cervical infection with eitherChlamydia trachomatis orNeisseria gonorrhoeae

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Abstract
Objective:To develop and test a diagnostic index for estimating the probability of cervical infection with either Chlamydia trachomatisor Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Design:Prospective, cross-sectional study in two phases: 1) to develop a diagnostic index based on independent predictors of cervical infection; 2) to test the index. Settings:A hospital-based clinic and a student health service. Patients:Development phase: 190 nonpregnant women seen in the gynecology clinic; testing phase: 588 women seen in the gynecology clinic (n=372) or the student health service (n=216). Interventions:Experienced clinicians recorded historical, physical, and microscopic findings on standard forms and tested women for chlamydial and gonococcal infections. Results:Three independent predictors of cervical infection were identified and weighted: age (two points if C. trachomatisand N. gonorrhoeaewere considered separately. Conclusion:The diagnostic index accurately estimates the probability of cervical infection with either C. trachomatisor N. gonorrhoeaeand may be useful in selecting women for definitive diagnostic testing.