Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD)

The STD Division provides routine and confirmatory testing for many common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Methods include nucleic acid amplification tests, multiplex immunoassays, flocculation, and particle agglutination. 

Chlamydia trachomatis/Neisseria gonorrhoeae/Trichomonas vaginalis (CT/GC/TV) Section

The CT/GC/TV Section performs testing for Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Trichomonas vaginalis using a single specimen by means of nucleic acid amplification technology (NAAT). Specimens for CT/GC may be of oral, cervical, vaginal, rectal, or urethral origin. TV testing is not available for specimens of oral or rectal origin. Specimens must be either swab or urine collected using a Gen-Probe Aptima Combo collection device.

HIV Serology Section

The HIV section screens for HIV using a multiplex flow immunoassay intended for the simultaneous qualitative detection and differentiation of the individual analytes:  HIV-1 p24 antigen, HIV-1 (group M and O) antibodies and HIV-2 antibodies.  Specimens may be submitted as whole blood, serum or plasma. The preferred specimen is 3.5 ml of whole blood collected in a 13x75 mm serum separator tube. Reactive specimens are retested and if repeatedly reactive are reflexed to a confirmatory test (the Geenius).  If needed, a second confirmatory test, HIV 1-RNA, will be performed.  The OraSure® Western Blot is available to confirm oral fluid specimens collected using the OraSure® Oral Fluid Collection Device.

Syphilis Serology Section

The Syphilis section changed how it performs routine screening for syphilis. The screening procedure now utilizes a multiplex flow immunoassay intended for the qualitative detection of total (IgG/IgM) antibodies to Treponema pallidum and the qualitative detection and/or titer determination of non-treponemal reagin antibodies in human serum or plasma. The preferred specimen is 3.5 ml of whole blood collected in a 13x75 mm serum separator tube.  If necessary, the specimen will be tested using a second treponemal test, the TP-PA (Treponema Pallidum-Particle Agglutination).

 

Contact

STD
(334) 213-2852

AIDS and HIV
(334) 213-2838