IMMUNOTYPES OF CHLAMYDIA-TRACHOMATIS ISOLATED FROM GENITAL-TRACT SPECIMENS IN TAHITI

The distribution of Chlamydia trachomatis immunotypes (serovars) in Tahiti was studied by immunotyping of local isolates using monoclonal antibodies in the micro-immunofluorescence test. From 115 isolates obtained from the genital tracts of patients attending a sexually transmitted diseases clinic and other gynecological consultations, eight immunotypes were identified: E (51.3 %), F (16.5 %), G (13 %), H (5.2 %), J (6.9 %), D (3.5 %), K (1.7 %) and I (0.9 %). In addition, an isolate with mixed immunotypes, EJ (0.9 %), was observed. This distribution was compared with those in different geographical areas.