Which department should I visit for a positive Chlamydia trachomatis test?
Nov 19, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
In general, individuals who test positive for Chlamydia trachomatis should seek medical care at departments such as ophthalmology, dermatology and sexually transmitted diseases, urology, gynecology, or respiratory medicine, depending on the site of infection and symptoms. Chlamydia trachomatis infection may affect multiple systems; therefore, visiting the appropriate specialty department enables more accurate diagnosis and treatment. Prompt evaluation and management at a qualified medical institution are essential when symptoms occur. The specific recommendations are as follows:
Generally, individuals who test positive for *Chlamydia trachomatis* should seek medical care in departments such as ophthalmology, dermatology and sexually transmitted diseases, urology, gynecology, or respiratory medicine, depending on the site of infection and symptoms. Since *Chlamydia trachomatis* can affect multiple systems, visiting the appropriate specialty department ensures more accurate diagnosis and treatment. Prompt evaluation and management at a正规 hospital are essential when symptoms occur. Specific recommendations are as follows:
1. Ophthalmology
The most typical site of *Chlamydia trachomatis* infection is the eye, where it causes conditions such as trachoma. If patients experience symptoms like red eyes, foreign body sensation, excessive tearing, increased discharge, or blurred vision, they should first visit an ophthalmologist. Doctors use slit-lamp examination and other assessments to observe ocular surface lesions, determine the severity of infection, and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
2. Dermatology and Sexually Transmitted Diseases Department
*Chlamydia trachomatis* can be transmitted through sexual contact, leading to genital infections and is classified as a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Individuals experiencing genital itching, redness, swelling, or abnormal discharge should visit the dermatology and STD clinic. Pathogen testing helps confirm the diagnosis and prevents further transmission or worsening of the condition.
3. Urology
In men, *Chlamydia trachomatis* infection may lead to urinary tract conditions such as urethritis or epididymitis. Symptoms including frequent urination, urgency, dysuria, burning sensation at the urethral opening, or abnormal discharge warrant a visit to the urology department. Diagnosis is confirmed via urinalysis and pathogen detection, followed by timely anti-infective treatment.
4. Gynecology
In women, *Chlamydia trachomatis* commonly affects reproductive organs such as the cervix and vagina, potentially causing cervicitis or pelvic inflammatory disease. When symptoms such as increased vaginal discharge, foul odor, vaginal itching, or lower abdominal pressure occur, patients should seek care in gynecology. Diagnosis is made through gynecological examination and pathogen testing to prevent adverse effects on reproductive health.
5. Respiratory Medicine
In infants or individuals with weakened immune systems, *Chlamydia trachomatis* may infect the respiratory tract, causing pneumonia or bronchitis. In cases of fever, cough, wheezing, or difficulty breathing, patients should visit the respiratory department. Chest imaging and pathogen testing help identify the cause, enabling prompt and targeted treatment.
During infection, personal hygiene must be maintained. Avoid sharing towels, basins, tableware, or other personal items with others. Sexual partners should also undergo examination and treatment simultaneously to prevent cross-infection. Medications should be taken in full dose and for the complete prescribed duration as directed by a physician—do not discontinue or adjust dosage without medical advice. Maintain a light diet during treatment, avoid spicy and irritating foods, follow a regular sleep schedule to boost immunity, and attend follow-up appointments to confirm clearance of the infection.
