Sexually Transmitted Pathogens in Key Populations Attending the Institute of Social Hygiene Hospital in Dakar, Senegal

Introduction: Chlamydia trachomatis urogenital infection is one of the leading causes of bacterial Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and responsible for many complications. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of sexually transmitted pathogens in key populations in Senegal. Materials and methods: A retrospective study from January to December 2018 was carried out at the Institute of Social Hygiene in 2 key populations namely Men who have Sex with Men (MSM) and Female Sex Workers (FSW) presented symptoms of STIs. For each patient, blood samples and urethral or vaginal sample were collected. Diagnostic of STIs microorganisms including Treponema pallidum, C. trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Trichomonas vaginalis was performed. Results: Two hundred fourteen patients (173 FSW and 41 MSMS) with STIs symptoms were included in this study. STI diagnosis was confirmed in 176 participants giving an overall STIs rate of 82% (176/214). Among them, 80% (141/176) were FSW and 20% (35/176) were MSM. C. trachomatis was found in 55% of cases (97/176) followed by N. gonorrhoeae (18%; n=32/176), T. vaginalis (15%; n=26/176) and T. Pallidum (12%; n=21/176). Interestingly, C. trachomatis infection was exclusively detected in FSW with a rate of 68.8% (97/141). In addition, C. trachomatis was associated with other STIs agents in 22 cases (23%) namely T. pallidum (5.2%; n=5/97), N. gonorrhoeae (3.1%; n=3/97), and T. vaginalis (14.4%; n=14/97). C. trachomatis was found in all age groups, however, young people (<30 years) seems to be more affected with 58.8% (57/97). Conclusion: This study showed a predominance of C. trachomatis infections among FSW suggesting the importance to consider this STI’s pathogen in the management of key populations in Senegal.