Molecular detection and clinical relevance of Haemophilus spp. in male urethritis: Prevalence and risk factors

Abstract

Introduction and objective

Urethritis is the most common sexually transmitted infection in men. Haemophilus influenzae and Haemophilus parainfluenzae, commensal microorganisms of the respiratory and oral tract, have been proposed as potential etiological agents of non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU). This study aimed to determine the prevalence of these species in urine samples from men with urethritis and analyze their clinical correlation.

Methods

A total of 200 urinary DNA samples from patients diagnosed with urethritis were analyzed. Microorganisms were identified through multiplex PCR, amplifying the P6 and 16S rRNA genes. Associations between risk factors and infection were evaluated by calculating odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) using OpenEpi 3.03a.

Results

The mean age of the population was 55 years (range 20–95). Among the participants, 32.5% had received prior sexual education, and 75% reported not using contraceptive methods. H. influenzae was not detected in any sample, whereas H. parainfluenzae was present in 9.5% (n = 19) of cases. Significant associations were identified with the absence of formal education, a history of more than ten sexual partners, masturbation, and sexual intercourse under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

Conclusions

Although H. influenzae and H. parainfluenzae have been rarely identified in urethritis, their high transmissibility and clinical relevance suggest the need for their detection in high-risk populations. Their identification may contribute to improving diagnosis and the implementation of therapeutic strategies.