Chlamydia & Gonorrhea Most Popular

The Chlamydia & Gonorrhea test contains 1 test with 2 biomarkers.

Brief Description: The Chlamydia and Gonorrhea RNA test, also known as the Transcription-Mediated Amplification test (TMA), is a highly sensitive and specific laboratory test used to detect the presence of Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the bacteria responsible for chlamydia and gonorrhea, respectively. This test is considered the gold standard for diagnosing these sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Also Known As: Chlamydia Trachomatis Test, Chlamydia STD Test, GC Test, Neisseria Gonorrhoeae test, Gonorrhoeae test, gonorrhea and chlamydia test

Collection Method: Urine Collection

Specimen Type: Urine

Test Preparation: Urine specimens: The patient should not have urinated for at least one hour prior to specimen collection. Female patients should not cleanse the labial area prior to providing the specimen.

When is a Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test ordered?

A Chlamydia and Gonorrhea RNA test may be ordered in the following scenarios:

  1. Routine STI Screening: As part of routine sexual health screening, especially for sexually active individuals, the test may be ordered to detect asymptomatic chlamydia and gonorrhea infections. Early detection is crucial for timely treatment and prevention of complications.

  2. Symptomatic Infection: When a person presents with symptoms suggestive of chlamydia or gonorrhea, such as abnormal vaginal or penile discharge, pain or burning during urination, pelvic pain, or genital sores, the test can help confirm the diagnosis.

  3. Partner Notification: If an individual tests positive for chlamydia or gonorrhea, their sexual partners may be advised to undergo testing to ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment.

What does a Chlamydia and Gonorrhea urine test check for?

Chlamydia is one of the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infections in the United States, and if left untreated, it can lead to serious consequences. Chlamydia testing determines whether the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis is to blame for an infection. In order to avoid long-term consequences and the spread of the infection to others, it’s critical to screen for, diagnose, and treat chlamydia.

Chlamydia infections are most common among people aged 15 to 24. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2.86 million Americans contract chlamydia each year, and women are commonly re-infected if their partners do not seek treatment. Because many people don’t have any symptoms and don’t get tested and identified, the true number of cases may be larger. Despite this, each year over one million new cases are reported.

Sexual contact with an infected partner is the most common way for chlamydia to spread. Multiple sex partners, coinfection or previous infection with another STD, and not wearing a condom appropriately and consistently are also risk factors.

Many people with chlamydia infections have no symptoms, while others may only have minor ones. Because the signs and symptoms of chlamydia are similar to those of another STD, gonorrhea, and can be misinterpreted, testing for both diseases are frequently performed at the same time.

Antibiotics are commonly used to treat chlamydia. It can cause serious reproductive and other health problems if not recognized and addressed.

In women, untreated chlamydia infections that originate on the cervix but progress to the fallopian tubes and ovaries can cause pelvic inflammatory disease.

Men who are not treated may become infertile in rare cases.

If not diagnosed and treated, gonorrhea is a common bacterial sexually transmitted illness that can lead to serious consequences. Gonorrhea testing determines whether a person's infection is caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The importance of gonorrhea screening, diagnosis, and treatment in reducing long-term consequences and the spread of the infection to others cannot be overstated.

More than 820,000 people in the United States contract new gonorrheal infections each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but only about half of these infections are reported to the CDC. In the United States, sexually active teenagers, young adults, and African Americans have the highest reported rates of infection.

Sexual contact with an infected partner is the most common way for gonorrhea to spread. Multiple sex partners, coinfection or previous infection with another STD, and not wearing a condom appropriately and consistently are also risk factors.

While some males with gonorrhea will experience symptoms, the majority of women will not or will confuse gonorrhea symptoms with those of a bladder or other vaginal illness. Symptoms in men usually emerge 2 to 5 days after infection, but they can take up to 30 days. Symptoms usually appear within 10 days of infection for women. Because the signs and symptoms of gonorrhea are similar to those of another STD, chlamydia, and can be misinterpreted, testing for both diseases are sometimes performed at the same time.

Antibiotics are generally prescribed to treat gonorrhea. Gonorrhea can have catastrophic consequences if it is not recognized and treated.

Untreated gonorrhea infections in women can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, which can develop days to months after infection and cause consequences.

Untreated gonorrhea can spread to the blood or joints, leading to disseminated gonococcal infection, a dangerous illness. Fever, numerous skin lesions, severe joint swelling, inflammation of the membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord, and infection of the inner lining of the heart are all signs of DGI. In infants born to infected moms, DGI symptoms include arthritis, meningitis, and sepsis, a serious, life-threatening illness.

Antibiotics identical to those used to treat simple gonorrhea might be used to successfully treat DGI. Treatment-resistant gonorrhea, on the other hand, is becoming more common. To treat all uncomplicated gonococcal infections in adults and adolescents in the United States, CDC guidelines presently recommend dual therapy with ceftriaxone and azithromycin. If a patient's symptoms do not improve following therapy, a healthcare provider may need to do additional tests, including susceptibility testing.

Lab tests often ordered with a Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test:

Chlamydia and Gonorrhea tests are used to diagnose infections caused by two common sexually transmitted bacteria: Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. When these tests are ordered, they are often part of a broader evaluation for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and reproductive health. Here are some tests commonly ordered alongside them:

  1. Syphilis Test (RPR):

    • Purpose: To screen for syphilis, another common STI.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Syphilis can have serious long-term consequences if not treated and is part of routine STI screening.
  2. Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Types 1 and 2 Serology:

    • Purpose: To test for antibodies to the herpes simplex virus, which causes oral and genital herpes.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To diagnose herpes infection, as symptoms can sometimes be mild or mistaken for other conditions.
  3. Hepatitis B and C Tests:

    • Purpose: To screen for hepatitis B and C viruses, which can be transmitted sexually.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Hepatitis can lead to serious liver disease and is a concern for sexually active individuals, especially those with multiple partners.
  4. Complete Blood Count (CBC):

    • Purpose: Provides a broad picture of overall health.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To assess general health and detect any signs of infection or inflammation.
  5. Urinalysis:

    • Purpose: To evaluate the health of the urinary system.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To check for signs of urinary tract infection, which can sometimes accompany STIs.

These tests, when ordered alongside Chlamydia and Gonorrhea tests, provide a comprehensive view of an individual’s sexual and reproductive health. They are crucial in diagnosing and managing STIs and identifying any related conditions or complications. The specific combination of tests will depend on the individual's symptoms, sexual history, and overall health status.

Conditions where a Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test is recommended:

A Chlamydia and Gonorrhea RNA test is necessary in the following situations:

  1. Suspected or Known Exposure: Individuals who have had unprotected sexual contact with a partner diagnosed with chlamydia or gonorrhea should undergo testing to assess their infection status.

  2. Routine Screening: Routine STI screening, especially for sexually active individuals, aims to identify and treat asymptomatic chlamydia and gonorrhea infections to prevent complications and curb the spread of the diseases.

How does my health care provider use a Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test?

Health care providers use the results of a Chlamydia and Gonorrhea RNA test to:

  1. Confirm Diagnosis: A positive test result indicates the presence of Chlamydia trachomatis or Neisseria gonorrhoeae RNA, confirming the diagnosis of chlamydia or gonorrhea, respectively.

  2. Guide Treatment: The test results help determine the appropriate antibiotic treatment regimen, taking into account the antimicrobial susceptibilities of the detected bacteria. Prompt and targeted treatment reduces the risk of complications and transmission.

  3. Prevent Spread: Identifying and treating infected individuals is crucial for preventing the spread of chlamydia and gonorrhea within the community.

It's important to note that follow-up testing may be recommended for certain populations or in specific situations, such as retesting after completion of treatment to ensure eradication of the infection. Additionally, counseling and education on safe sexual practices are often provided to individuals diagnosed with chlamydia or gonorrhea to prevent reinfection and promote sexual health.

What do my chlamydia and gonorrhea test results mean?

A positive result indicates that you have an active infection that requires antibiotic therapy.

A negative result simply means that no infection was present at the time of the test. It is critical for those who are at a higher risk of infection to have annual screening tests to check for infection, especially since re-infection is common, especially among teenagers.

If you're infected, your sexual partner(s) should get tested and treated as well.

Most Common Questions About the Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test:

Understanding the Chlamydia and Gonorrhea Test

What is the Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test?

The Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test is a laboratory test used to detect the presence of Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the bacteria that cause chlamydia and gonorrhea respectively. These are both sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Why is the Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test performed?

This test is performed when a person exhibits symptoms suggestive of these infections or when a person is at increased risk of these infections due to factors like multiple sexual partners, new sexual partner, or unprotected sex.

Interpreting Chlamydia and Gonorrhea Test Results

What does a positive Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test mean?

A positive test result means that the person has been infected with one or both of these bacteria, suggesting an active chlamydia or gonorrhea infection.

What does a negative Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test mean?

A negative result indicates that the person does not have a current infection with either of these bacteria, assuming the test was performed correctly and at the right time in the course of any potential infection.

Can the Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test tell me which infection I have?

Yes, the test identifies each bacteria separately. So, it can determine whether you have a chlamydia infection, a gonorrhea infection, or both.

Chlamydia and Gonorrhea Test and Specific Populations

Why might pregnant women need a Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test?

Pregnant women are often tested for these infections because they can cause complications such as preterm labor and can be passed on to the baby during delivery, potentially leading to severe eye infections or pneumonia in the newborn.

Why might men who have sex with men (MSM) need a Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test?

MSM are at a higher risk for STIs, including chlamydia and gonorrhea. Regular testing allows for early detection and treatment, thereby preventing complications and transmission to others.

Chlamydia and Gonorrhea Test and Disease Management

Can a Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test guide treatment decisions?

Yes, a positive test result will guide the need for treatment with specific antibiotics that are effective against these bacteria.

Can the Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test detect a recurrent infection?

Yes, the test can be used to detect recurrent infections. It's important to note that successful treatment of a previous infection doesn't provide immunity, and so re-infection can occur.

Can the Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test help to prevent the spread of these infections?

Yes, by identifying infected individuals, the test can help prevent the spread of these infections through timely treatment and by advising those individuals to inform their sexual partners.

Chlamydia and Gonorrhea Test and Other Tests

How does the Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test compare to other STI tests?

The Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test specifically identifies these two infections, but there are other STIs that require different tests, like HIV, syphilis, and HPV. Depending on an individual's risk factors and symptoms, other tests may be recommended alongside the Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test.

Can the Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test be used to test other sites of potential infection?

Yes, these bacteria can infect other areas such as the rectum and throat, particularly in people who have had anal or oral sex. Appropriate samples from these sites can be tested.

General Queries

Can the Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test differentiate between an active infection and past infection?

Yes, the test detects the bacteria themselves, so a positive test suggests an active infection, not a past infection. However, a negative test cannot distinguish between someone who has never been infected and someone who was infected in the past but has since cleared the infection.

If I'm asymptomatic, should I still get the Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test?

Yes, these infections can often be asymptomatic, particularly in the early stages. If you're sexually active and especially if you have risk factors for these infections, testing is important even without symptoms.

Can the Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test help in diagnosing conditions related to these infections?

Yes, testing can assist in the diagnosis of conditions related to these infections, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, which can occur when these STIs are untreated and spread to the upper reproductive tract.

Can the Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test results be influenced by medication?

Yes, if you have taken antibiotics that are effective against these bacteria, it may affect the test results by eliminating or reducing the bacteria.

Does menstruation affect the results of the Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test?

Menstruation does not directly impact the test results, but it's generally recommended to avoid testing during menstruation to reduce the chance of sample contamination.

Can the Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test identify drug-resistant infections?

This test can't identify drug resistance. If symptoms persist after treatment, further tests may be needed to identify potential antibiotic resistance.

Can a Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test be performed during pregnancy?

Yes, it is safe to perform this test during pregnancy. In fact, pregnant women are typically tested for these infections due to potential risks to the baby.

If I had a Chlamydia and/or Gonorrhea infection in the past, will this affect my test results?

A previous infection does not affect the results of this test. This test detects active infections, so if you've been treated successfully in the past, your test should be negative unless you've been re-infected.

What is the best time to get a Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test after potential exposure?

It's recommended to wait at least 1-2 weeks after potential exposure to get tested for these STIs, as testing too soon after exposure may not yield accurate results.

Does alcohol or food intake affect the Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test results?

No, alcohol or food intake doesn't impact the results of this test.

Can I be tested for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea if I have a urinary catheter?

Yes, a urine sample can be collected directly from the catheter for testing.

Can the Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test detect other sexually transmitted infections?

No, this test is specific for Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Other tests would be necessary to detect other sexually transmitted infections.

Can I get a Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test if I've received the HPV vaccine?

Yes, the HPV vaccine does not interfere with the Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test. These are different infections, and the vaccine doesn't affect the detection of other STIs.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: ChlamydiaNeisseria gonorrhoeae RNA TMA, CT/GC APTIMA®, CT/GC TMA, CT/NG APTIMA®, CT/NG TMA, Hologic

Chlamydia Trachomatis

This test is looking for evidence of infection by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. Chlamydia is the most common bacterial sexually transmitted disease (STD) in the United States. About 75% of infected women and 50% of infected men have no symptoms; some may experience only mild symptoms. For women, symptoms, if they occur, include bleeding between menstrual periods and after sexual intercourse, abdominal pain, painful intercourse, and an abnormal vaginal discharge. For men, symptoms include pus or milky discharge from the penis and inflammation of the prostate (prostatitis) or of the rectal area (proctitis). Both sexes can experience painful or frequent urination.

Neisseria Gonorrhoeae

The test is looking for presence of the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which causes the sexually transmitted disease gonorrhea. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that more than 700,000 people in the U.S. get new gonorrheal infections each year. While many men with gonorrhea will experience symptoms, most women do not, or will mistake gonorrhea symptoms for a bladder or other vaginal infection. For men, symptoms usually appear within 2 to 5 days of infection but can take up to 30 days. Women who experience symptoms usually do so within 10 days of infection.
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