Chlamydia, Gonorrhoeae, Trichomonas

CPT Code(s):
87491, 87591, 87661

Turnaround Time:
24 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

The Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Trichomonas (CT/NG/TV) test 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 three common pathogens: Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Trichomonas vaginalis.

The clinical significance and diagnostic use of the Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Trichomonas test include:

1. Diagnosis of Multiple STIs: The primary purpose of the CT/NG/TV test is to diagnose Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Trichomonas vaginalis infections in both men and women. These STIs can cause a range of symptoms, including genital discharge, pain during urination, itching, and discomfort. However, many infected individuals may remain asymptomatic. The test is used to identify the presence of these pathogens, facilitating early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

2. Screening for Multiple Infections: Asymptomatic infections of Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and Trichomonas are common. Screening programs are essential for identifying and treating asymptomatic individuals to prevent the spread of infection and potential complications. The CT/NG/TV test is used for routine screening in sexually active individuals, particularly those at higher risk or with a history of STIs.

3. Comprehensive STI Evaluation: The CT/NG/TV test provides a comprehensive evaluation of multiple STIs in a single test. It allows simultaneous detection of Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Trichomonas vaginalis, streamlining the diagnostic process and reducing the need for multiple separate tests.

4. Partner Management and Contact Tracing: The CT/NG/TV test is valuable in partner management and contact tracing. When an individual tests positive for any of these infections, 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 infections.

5. Prevention of Complications: Timely detection and treatment of these STIs are crucial to prevent complications. If left untreated, Chlamydia, gonorrhea, or Trichomonas infections can lead to serious reproductive health problems in both men and women, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and chronic pelvic pain. The CT/NG/TV test aids in early detection, allowing for prompt treatment and prevention of these complications.

6. Monitoring Treatment Response: The CT/NG/TV test is used to monitor the response to treatment. Following treatment, a repeat test is recommended to ensure the infections have been successfully cleared. Monitoring treatment response is important to confirm eradication of the pathogens and prevent reinfection or persistent infection.

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