Chlamydia trachomatis / Neisseria gonorrhoeae (CT/NG) PCR

The Chlamydia trachomatis / Neisseria gonorrhoeae (CT/NG) PCR Test is a molecular test used to detect two of the most common bacterial causes of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)—Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It’s a highly accurate test that uses Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technology to identify specific genetic material from these bacteria. In short, it allows detection even in very small amounts of samples.

Unlike older culture-based methods, PCR is a lot faster and more sensitive. It has become a reliable diagnostic tool for screening individuals who may have been exposed to these infections. The test can be performed on various samples, like urine, urethral swabs (for men), and cervical swabs (for women). The PCR’s high sensitivity and specificity are paramount for early detection and effective treatment or management of these widespread STIs.

Who Should Get a Chlamydia trachomatis / Neisseria gonorrhoeae (CT/NG) PCR Test

This test is recommended for various individuals, especially those at higher risk for these common sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Sexually Active Individuals

• Routine screening: Sexually active people should be regularly screened, even without symptoms, to catch infections early and prevent spread.
• New or multiple partners: It’s a good idea to get tested when starting a new sexual relationship or if you have multiple partners.
• Partners of infected individuals: If your partner tests positive for chlamydia or gonorrhea, you should also be tested, as these infections are highly contagious.

People with Symptoms

• Unusual discharge: Any abnormal discharge from the penis, vagina, or rectum could be a sign of infection.
• Pain or burning: Experiencing pain during urination or sexual intercourse.
• Swelling or redness: Unusual swelling or redness around the genitals can also be a symptom.

Special Populations

• Pregnant individuals: All pregnant people should be screened to prevent serious health issues for both the parent and the newborn.
• High-risk groups: This includes men who have sex with men (MSM) and adolescents, as these groups typically have higher rates of CT/NG infections.

Chlamydia trachomatis / Neisseria gonorrhoeae (CT/NG) PCR Test Process

Here’s a straightforward look at how the CT/NG PCR test works:

1. Sample Collection: A urine sample is usually collected from a person to be tested. It’s non-invasive and often easy to get. In some cases, a swab may be used to collect a sample from the genitals (vagina, cervix, or urethra) or other areas like the rectum or throat. It depends on the patient’s type of exposure.
2. Laboratory Analysis: The collected sample is sent to a laboratory where a lab technician will extract the DNA from the sample. The DNA is then placed into a machine that performs Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). This process makes millions of copies of any Chlamydia trachomatis or Neisseria gonorrhoeae DNA that might be in the sample. This step is crucial because it creates enough DNA to be easily detected.
3. Detection and Results: After the DNA has been amplified, the machine checks for the presence of the specific DNA sequences that belong to Chlamydia and Gonorrhea. If these are found, the test result is positive. If they are not found, the result is negative. The lab then sends the final results to the healthcare provider.
4. Interpretation and Next Steps: Your healthcare provider will review your results. A positive result means the patient has one or both of these infections and will need treatment with antibiotics, while a negative result means the infections were not detected. Your doctor should discuss treatment and prevention strategies with you.

FAQs

Is a negative result guaranteed to be 100% accurate?

While the CT/NG PCR test is very reliable, no medical test is 100% accurate. A negative result means no DNA from Chlamydia or Gonorrhea was found in the sample. While a false negative can be rare, it can still happen if the sample was collected too early after exposure or if there was an issue with the sample or testing process.

When should I get tested?

Get tested right away if you have symptoms of a Chlamydia or Gonorrhea infection (such as unusual discharge, burning during urination, or pelvic pain). Also, get tested if you’ve recently had unprotected sex with a new or multiple partners. Regular screening is recommended for sexually active individuals.

Get Tested for Chlamydia trachomatis / Neisseria gonorrhoeae at Medi Linx

Concerned about your sexual health? Get peace of mind with the CT/NG PCR test at Medi Linx Laboratory. We have cutting-edge facilities that provide fast, confidential, and highly accurate testing for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea. Don’t wait up—protect yourself and your partners. Contact us today to schedule your confidential CT/NG PCR test!