Test Includes

Detection of Chlamydia trachomatis by strand displacement amplification assay

Request Form 

Microbiology form (Green)

Availability

On request during normal working hours

Turnaround Time

Samples will be tested on the next normal working day following receipt 

Specimen

Cervical and/or urethral swabs from female patients, urethral swabs from male patients. Urine samples can also be used for Chlamydia trachomatis  detection in male patients (see collection below)

Container

Special swabs together with a transportation tube are available for Chlamydia detection.  The swabs are available from the Virology Laboratory (ext 3536) and can be stored on the ward for several months at room temperature.  An expiry date is printed on the package - please check EVERY swab before using.
Urine samples for detection of Chlamydia trachomatis must be collected into a plain, white capped, universal bottle

Collection

Once collected, the specimen must be kept cool and sent to the Laboratory as soon as possible.  When sampling for Chlamydia in the eyes, it is important to rub the swab firmly over the mucosal surface of the lower lid.  If swabs for routine bacteriology are required, then these must be collected first and sent to the Laboratory in bacteriological transport media

Lab. Handling

Samples should be processed as soon as possible

Causes for Rejection

Unlabelled sample
Delay in sample reaching laboratory
Incorrect swab type or urine sample container received