Chlamydia
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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: Chlamydia trachomatis RNA TMA, CT APTIMA®, CT TMA, Hologic
Chlamydia Trachomatis
The Chlamydia test contains 1 test with 1 biomarker .
Brief Description: The Chlamydia trachomatis RNA test, also known as Transcription-Mediated Amplification (TMA) test, is a highly sensitive molecular diagnostic test used to detect the presence of Chlamydia trachomatis, a bacterium responsible for causing the sexually transmitted infection (STI) known as chlamydia. This test uses TMA technology to amplify and detect the RNA of the bacteria in a patient's sample.
Also Known As: Chlamydia Trachomatis Test, Chlamydia STD Test
Collection Method: Urine Collection
Specimen Type: Urine
Test Preparation: 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 test ordered?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, all sexually active women younger than 25 and sexually active women 25 and older who are at elevated risk should have a yearly chlamydia screening. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the US Preventive Services Task Force both urge routine screening for these women.
The CDC recommends that males who have intercourse with other men get tested for chlamydia at least once a year. For sexually active, heterosexual men with no symptoms, health organizations do not advocate routine screening. When there is a large number of cases of STDs in the community, for example, healthcare providers may prescribe screening to their patients.
When a person’s sexual partner has been diagnosed with chlamydia or when a person has signs and symptoms of the infection, chlamydia testing may be performed.
Women and men who have been treated for chlamydia should be tested again three months afterwards.
What does a Chlamydia 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.
Lab tests often ordered with a Chlamydia test:
When a Chlamydia Trachomatis RNA, TMA test is ordered, it's often part of a broader evaluation for STIs and related health concerns. Here are some tests commonly ordered alongside it:
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Neisseria Gonorrhoeae RNA, TMA:
- Purpose: To detect Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the bacterium that causes gonorrhea.
- Why Is It Ordered: Gonorrhea often co-occurs with chlamydia. Testing for both simultaneously is standard practice in the screening and diagnosis of STIs.
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- Purpose: To screen for and confirm syphilis infection.
- Why Is It Ordered: Like gonorrhea and chlamydia, syphilis is a common STI, and co-testing is important for comprehensive sexual health screening.
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Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Types 1 and 2-Specific Antibodies, IgG:
- Purpose: To test for previous exposure to the herpes simplex virus.
- Why Is It Ordered: To identify the presence of herpes simplex virus, which can cause genital herpes.
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Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C Tests:
- Purpose: To screen for hepatitis B and C infections.
- Why Is It Ordered: Hepatitis B and C can be transmitted sexually, so they are often included in a broader STI screening, especially for high-risk individuals.
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- Purpose: To analyze components of the urine.
- Why Is It Ordered: To check for signs of urinary tract infection, which can sometimes present with symptoms similar to those of STIs.
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- Purpose: To evaluate overall blood health.
- Why Is It Ordered: In some cases, especially if symptoms of systemic infection are present, a CBC can provide useful information.
These tests, when ordered alongside a Chlamydia Trachomatis RNA, TMA test, provide a comprehensive evaluation of a patient’s sexual health and assist in diagnosing and managing STIs. The specific combination of tests will depend on the individual’s symptoms, sexual history, and risk factors.
Conditions where a Chlamydia test is recommended:
A Chlamydia trachomatis RNA, TMA test is essential for:
- Chlamydia Infection: The test confirms the presence of Chlamydia trachomatis, aiding in early treatment and preventing complications.
- Preventive Care: Routine testing helps identify asymptomatic infections, preventing the spread of the infection.
How does my health care provider use a Chlamydia test?
Chlamydia testing is used to detect, diagnose, and confirm that infections caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis have been successfully treated. Chlamydia is one of the most common bacterial sexually transmitted diseases in the United States, and if left untreated, it can lead to serious consequences. To avoid long-term consequences and the spread of the infection to others, it's critical to screen for, diagnose, and treat chlamydia.
Because the illnesses produced by these two bacteria might have similar signs and symptoms, testing for Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae is frequently done at the same time. Both of these bacteria can be acquired at the same time, and a person can get infected with both. Because the two infections require distinct antibiotic treatments, a clear diagnosis is critical. Testing should be done again to determine that the treatment was effective. After a person has completed therapy, this is done roughly three months later.
What do my Chlamydia test results mean?
A positive result indicates that you have an active chlamydia 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 test:
Clinical Utility and Interpretation
What is the Chlamydia trachomatis RNA, TMA test used for?
The Chlamydia trachomatis RNA, TMA test is used to detect the presence of Chlamydia trachomatis RNA in a sample, typically from the urogenital tract. The presence of this RNA indicates an active infection with Chlamydia trachomatis, a common sexually transmitted bacterium.
How does the Chlamydia trachomatis RNA, TMA test differ from other Chlamydia tests?
While there are other tests to diagnose chlamydia infections, the Chlamydia trachomatis RNA, TMA (Transcription-Mediated Amplification) test is a molecular test that detects the genetic material of the bacteria. It is considered more sensitive than traditional culture methods and can detect the bacteria even in asymptomatic individuals.
Clinical Applications and Diagnoses
Why might a healthcare provider recommend the Chlamydia trachomatis RNA, TMA test?
A healthcare provider might recommend this test if a patient shows symptoms consistent with a Chlamydia infection or if a patient has had sexual contact with someone known to have the infection. It's also frequently used as a routine screening measure in sexually active individuals, especially those under 25, or in those with multiple sexual partners.
If the Chlamydia trachomatis RNA, TMA test is positive, what are the next steps?
A positive test indicates an active Chlamydia trachomatis infection. The patient would typically be treated with appropriate antibiotics. Sexual partners should also be notified, tested, and treated to prevent reinfection and further transmission.
Comparative Insights
Is the Chlamydia trachomatis RNA, TMA test more reliable than other testing methods?
The TMA test for Chlamydia trachomatis is generally more sensitive than culture-based tests, meaning it can detect the infection in more individuals, including those with low bacterial loads. It's especially useful in asymptomatic individuals, where bacterial concentrations might be lower.
Understanding Limitations and Challenges
Can a person test positive for Chlamydia trachomatis RNA, TMA after completing treatment?
Yes, it's possible for remnants of bacterial RNA to remain in the system for a short time after successful treatment, leading to a positive result even if the active infection has been cleared. It's always important to follow up with a healthcare provider for appropriate advice.
If a person tests negative for Chlamydia trachomatis RNA, TMA, can they be certain they don't have the infection?
While the Chlamydia trachomatis RNA, TMA test is highly sensitive, no test is 100% accurate. A negative result greatly reduces the likelihood of an active infection, but if someone is still symptomatic or has been exposed to an infected partner, they should consult with their healthcare provider about potential retesting or other diagnostic measures.
Additional Questions and Insights
Is the Chlamydia trachomatis RNA, TMA test used for both men and women?
Yes, the test can be used for both men and women. Depending on the individual and potential symptoms, the sample could be obtained from a urine sample, vaginal swab, or other relevant sources.
Can a person have a Chlamydia infection without showing symptoms, and will the Chlamydia trachomatis RNA, TMA test still detect it?
Yes, many individuals with Chlamydia trachomatis infection might not show symptoms, especially in the early stages. This is why routine screening is vital. The Chlamydia trachomatis RNA, TMA test can detect the infection even in asymptomatic individuals due to its high sensitivity.
We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.