Chlamydia Trachomatis

CPT Code(s):
87491

Turnaround Time:
8 hours

Specimen Requirements

Preferred Specimen:
Urine or Vaginal, Anorectal, Oropharyngeal Swab

Minimum Volume:
1.0 mL (or 1 swab)

Transport Container:
PCR Media Uni Swab Sample Kit

Transport Temperature:
Room Temperature

Collection Instructions:
First void urine specimens kept at 2�30 �C must be transferred from the collection cup to the PCR Tube within 4 hours of collection, or within 24 hours when stored at 2�8 �C.

Rejection Criteria:
Specimen received in preservative other than PCR Media Uni Swab kit

Stability Criteria

Room Temperature:
12 months

Refrigerated:
12 months

Frozen:
Unacceptable

Clinical Significance

Chlamydia trachomatis holds specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in the field of sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing and prevention. This test is designed to detect the presence of Chlamydia trachomatis, a bacterial pathogen responsible for the most common bacterial STI worldwide.

The clinical significance and diagnostic use of Chlamydia trachomatis include:

1. Diagnosis of Chlamydia Infection: The primary purpose of Chlamydia trachomatis is to diagnose Chlamydia infections in both men and women. Chlamydia trachomatis infections can cause a range of symptoms, including genital discharge, pain during urination, and pelvic pain. However, many infected individuals may remain asymptomatic. The test is used to identify the presence of the bacteria in order to facilitate early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

2. Screening for Asymptomatic Infections: Chlamydia trachomatis infections are often asymptomatic, especially in women. As a result, screening programs are crucial for identifying and treating asymptomatic individuals to prevent the spread of infection and potential complications. The test is used for routine screening in sexually active individuals, particularly those at higher risk or with a history of STIs.

3. Partner Management and Contact Tracing: Chlamydia trachomatis is valuable in partner management and contact tracing. When an individual tests positive for Chlamydia, their sexual partners need to be identified and informed so they can undergo testing and receive appropriate treatment. This helps prevent reinfection and further transmission of the infection.

4. Prevention of Complications: Timely detection and treatment of Chlamydia trachomatis infections are crucial to prevent complications. If left untreated, Chlamydia can lead to serious reproductive health problems in women, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and chronic pelvic pain. In men, it can cause epididymitis and, in rare cases, sterility. The test aids in early detection, allowing for prompt treatment and prevention of these complications.

5. Monitoring Treatment Response: Chlamydia trachomatis is used to monitor the response to treatment. Following treatment, a repeat test is recommended to ensure the infection has been successfully cleared. Monitoring treatment response is important to confirm eradication of the bacteria and prevent reinfection or persistent infection.

In summary, Chlamydia trachomatis has specific clinical significance in the diagnosis of Chlamydia infections, screening for asymptomatic infections, partner management and contact tracing, prevention of complications, and monitoring treatment response. By detecting the presence of Chlamydia trachomatis, this test provides valuable information for clinical decision-making, enabling healthcare providers to diagnose and manage Chlamydia infections, initiate timely treatment, prevent complications, and promote sexual health and well-being.