Comprehensive panel: STI pathogens and associated urogenital microorganisms (qualitative DNA detection; urogenital swab/female)

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

Comprehensive screening of urogenital infections (STIs), qualitative DNA detection is a molecular panel based on the PCR method, designed for the qualitative detection of the DNA of the microorganisms included in the panel.

The test includes agents of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), as well as other microorganisms that may colonize the urogenital tract or may 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 investigations 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 the simultaneous qualitative detection of the DNA of multiple agents included in the panel and may be used in the evaluation of urogenital infections, including certain STIs that may be asymptomatic.

Results should be interpreted in the clinical context. Detection of the DNA of a target does not automatically indicate the presence of an active infection and, on its own, does not establish the need for treatment.

Indications

Testing may be recommended, depending on the clinical and epidemiological context, in the following situations:

• symptoms or signs suggestive of a urogenital infection: abnormal discharge, dysuria, itching, a burning sensation or discomfort;
• clinical suspicion of a sexually transmitted infection (STI);
• unprotected sexual contact or the presence of STI risk factors;
• recurrent vaginal infections;
• pregnancy planning;
• preventive screening;
• the need to investigate multiple agents simultaneously as part of the evaluation of a urogenital condition;
• evaluation of a sexual partner when indicated, depending on the identified agent and medical recommendations;
• monitoring after treatment.

Procedure

The test is performed using the PCR method, which allows the qualitative detection of the DNA of the microorganisms included in the panel.

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

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK573166/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2589597421000770
https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/sexually-transmitted-infection-sti-tests/
https://www.actasdermo.org/es-update-on-diagnosis-sexually-transmitted-articulo-S157821902030305X

IMPORTANT!

It is essential to remember that the information provided in this section is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. If you experience any symptoms or a flare-up of a condition, it is crucial to seek medical attention and consult a qualified healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Only a licensed medical practitioner can accurately diagnose and recommend appropriate treatment. To ensure the most accurate and consistent evaluation of test results, it is recommended to have them performed at the same laboratory. This is because different laboratories may use varying methods and units of measurement for conducting similar tests.