How is it used?
The test is used in two ways:
- to diagnose the cause of symptoms, and
- to screen sexually active people.
A definitive diagnosis is important because symptoms of gonorrhea can resemble chlamydia clinically and the two disorders require different treatment.
There are several methods available, but the preferred method of testing currently is the molecular test. This test is based on amplification of the DNA that is present in Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Molecular testing for Neisseria gonorrhoeae is currently the standard and is widely utilized. The advantage of molecular tests is that they are generally more sensitive and specific than conventional culture and can therefore identify more positive specimens.
In men, a quick method that may be used in a clinic or doctor's office is the gram stain, which allows the doctor to look at a sample from the for the presence of the bacteria using a microscope. This method is not used on samples from women.
Testing for Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis is generally done simultaneously as the two organisms have similar clinical signs and symptoms.
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When is it ordered?
A doctor may order the test if you have symptoms such as (for women) increased vaginal discharge, bleeding associated with vaginal intercourse, or burning/painful urination; or (for men) pus discharging from the penis, a burning sensation during urination, or proctitis (inflammation of the rectal or anal area). However, because many infected people do not have any symptoms, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends the following:
- All sexually active females 25 years of age and younger should have a gonorrhea test each year.
- All other sexually active women who have no symptoms but are at increased risk for infection should be routinely screened.
- All pregnant women are tested for gonorrhea.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that males who have sex with males be screened at least once a year for gonorrhea as well as other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including chlamydia, syphilis, and HIV.
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What does the test result mean?
A positive test indicates an active infection that requires treatment with a course of antibiotics.
A negative test means only that there is no evidence of disease at the time of the test. It is important for those who are at increased risk of infection to have screening tests performed on a regular basis to check for possible exposure.
If you are infected, your sexual partner(s) should also be tested and treated as well.
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Is there anything else I should know?
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