Molecular Test Detection

Test : Neisseria gonorrhoeae DNA Test


Indications : N. gonorrhoeae infection is one of the most common sexually transmitted disease, and it is a matter of great concern that most cases of N. gonorrhoeae infection are asymptomatic. This has brought about a need for rapid and accurate detection of this disease in affected persons. Although cultures are efficient, they can be carried out only in controlled condition and this can be quite challenging.

It is in this light that nucleic acid amplification assays using strand displacement amplification (SDA) may be employed for increased sensitivity and greater specificity. However, clinical sensitivity and specificity of this test are based on clinical symptoms, gender, and the type of specimen sample.

In this method, DNA is isolated from urogenital specimens and the target DNA is amplified by isothermal SDA using 2 enzymes - DNA polymerase and a restriction endonuclease. The products of amplification products are detected through fluorescence energy transfer from labeled probes.

Physiology : Gonorrhea is an infection caused by the diplococci bacteria Neisseria gonorrheae. The bacteria is found to live and multiply in the mucous membrane of the fallopian tube, cervix, uterus and reproductive tract of females and also the anus, mouth and throat of both males and females.

The bacteria may spread through vaginal, anal or oral sexual contact or it may even spread from affected mother to child.

Painful urination and bloody discharge either from the penis or vagina are the initial symptoms and this can progress to a full-fledged inflammatory disease if left untreated.

It is noteworthy that N. gonorrhoeae can be isolated even from asymptomatic females.

Normal Range : The Dna detection assay is sensitive and specific.

Interpretation : If the result of the test is positive, it must be considered as evidence of infection.

Normal - Negative. Absence of N gonorrhoeae infection.

Mucus, Seminal fluid, lubricants, and common ointments do not interfere with the result of the assay. Samples containing leukocytes or blood may render false-negative results.

Sample : No Neisseriae gonorrhoeae nucleic acid

Test Method : Hybridization technique

Related Tests : Swab collected from genitourinary site of male or female

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