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Testing specimens for Chlamydia trachomatis
  1. S Skidmore1,
  2. P Horner2,
  3. H Mallinson3,
  4. on behalf of the HPA Chlamydia Diagnosis Forum*
  1. 1Princess Royal Hospital, Telford, UK
  2. 2Milne Sexual Health Centre, Bristol, UK
  3. 3University Hospital, Aintree, UK
  1. Correspondence to:
 Dr S Skidmore
 Department of Microbiology, Princess Royal Hospital, Telford, TF1 6TF, UK; sue.skidmore{at}rsh.nhs.uk

Abstract

The introduction of NAATs has revolutionised chlamydial diagnostics and these tests are now the standard of care. However, as with all new technologies, they have also presented new challenges. This review attempts to answer some of the questions that have been raised, particularly by groups about to embark on implementing a screening programme. Laboratory tests are continually changing but it is hoped that the paper provides a useful update of the current situation.

  • EIA, enzyme immunosorbent assays
  • MOTA, method other than acceleration
  • NAATs, nucleic acid amplification tests
  • PCR, polymerase chain reaction
  • PVN, predictive value of a negative test
  • PVP, predictive value of a positive test
  • SDA, strand displacement amplification
  • STI, sexually transmitted infections
  • TMA, transcription mediated amplification
  • chlamydia
  • testing
  • amplification
  • screening

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Footnotes

  • * Members listed at end of paper.

  • Competing interest: The authors have no competing interests to declare.