Comprehensive panel: STI pathogens and associated urogenital microorganisms (qualitative DNA detection; semen)

We remind you that independent interpretation of the results is unacceptable, the information provided below is for reference purposes only.

Comprehensive PCR testing for urogenital infections (STIs), qualitative DNA detection is a molecular test based on the PCR method, intended for the qualitative detection of DNA of the microorganisms included in the panel in a semen (ejaculate) sample.

The test includes sexually transmitted infection (STI) agents, as well as other microorganisms that may colonize the urogenital tract or be associated with certain urogenital conditions.

Detection of some microorganisms may also reflect colonization and does not automatically indicate the presence of an active infection. The clinical significance of the result should be interpreted in the context of symptoms, clinical examination findings, and other tests recommended by the physician.

The result is reported individually for each target tested as “positive/negative”.

Panel components

• Candida albicans (DNA, qualitative)
• Mycoplasma hominis (DNA, qualitative)
• Ureaplasma spp. (DNA, qualitative)
• Neisseria gonorrhoeae (DNA, qualitative)
• Chlamydia trachomatis (DNA, qualitative)
• Mycoplasma genitalium (DNA, qualitative)
• Trichomonas vaginalis (DNA, qualitative)
• Gardnerella vaginalis (DNA, qualitative)
• HSV-1 (DNA, qualitative)
• HSV-2 (DNA, qualitative)
• CMV (DNA, qualitative)
• Human papillomavirus 16 (DNA, qualitative)
• Human papillomavirus 18 (DNA, qualitative)

Role of the test

The test allows simultaneous qualitative detection of DNA of several microorganisms included in the panel in a semen sample and may be used in the assessment of urogenital infections, including certain STIs that may be asymptomatic.

The test may be used as part of a comprehensive assessment of inflammatory processes of the male urogenital system, as well as in the evaluation of patients with impaired reproductive function when the physician considers it necessary to rule out a possible infectious factor.

Results should be interpreted in a clinical context. Detection of DNA of a specific target does not automatically indicate the presence of an active infection and, by itself, does not determine the need for treatment.

Indications

The test may be recommended, depending on the clinical situation, in the following cases:

• suspected urogenital infection;
• recurrent urogenital infections;
• suspected infectious factor in inflammatory conditions of the urogenital system;
• inflammatory conditions of the male reproductive system;
• impaired reproductive function or evaluation of male infertility;
• abnormal semen analysis parameters when exclusion of a possible infectious factor is considered necessary;
• preparation for assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedures — upon physician recommendation;
• testing of a sexual partner when an infection has been identified or when clinically indicated;
• follow-up after treatment;
• preventive testing — upon physician recommendation.

Procedure

The test is performed using the PCR method, which allows qualitative detection of DNA of the microorganisms included in the panel in a semen (ejaculate) sample.

Several targets are analyzed simultaneously within a single test. The result is reported individually for each target tested as “positive/negative”.

The biological material for testing is semen (ejaculate).

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment-guidelines/STI-Guidelines-2021.pdf
https://www.aafp.org/dam/AAFP/documents/patient_care/sti/hops19-sti-manual.pdf?elqTrackId=97d8fd4868384d1bb882ad9affbb83a6&elqaid=162&elqat=2
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/stds-hiv-safer-sex/get-tested
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-center/iowa/council-bluffs/51501/council-bluffs-health-center-3683-90380/std-testing-treatment
https://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment-guidelines/screening-recommendations.htm
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sexually-transmitted-diseases-stds/in-depth/std-testing/art-20046019

IMPORTANT!

It is crucial to remember that the information provided in this section is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. If you experience any pain or exacerbation of a condition, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnostic tests and treatment. Only a qualified specialist can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. To obtain the most accurate and consistent evaluation of test results, it is recommended to have them performed at the same laboratory, as different laboratories may use varying methods and units of measurement for similar tests.