Ureaplasma colonization: definitions and epidemiologic implications.

Abstract

Genital mucosal colonization with Ureaplasma species complicates interpretation of their role as pathogens. From an epidemiologic point of view, colonization should be considered a dynamic process in which knowledge about the habitat colonized is an integral part. The classical criteria of pathogenicity need to be broadened to include qualitative, quantitative, and temporal aspects as disease associations of ureaplasmas are explored.