CPT: 87563

Mycoplasma genitalium is a sexually transmitted infection that causes urethritis, as well as cervicitis and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women. Symptoms resemble those of chlamydia infection. It is strongly associated with chronic infection of the urethra and is connected with an increased risk for preterm birth, spontaneous abortion, female infertility and HIV co-infection. Screening is recommended for patients at high risk for M. genitalium infection, or who have had sexual contact with an infected individual.

We offer a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) assay as a diagnostic test. NAAT detects M. genitalium RNA to identify the bacterium. This test is conducted on clinically collected specimens: urine, male urethral swabs, endocervical swabs or self-collection of penile meatal swabs. For females, a vaginal swab is preferred for its higher sensitivity. Using other clinical specimens may result in a false negative. Potential treatments in case of a positive test should be discussed with a health care provider with respect to the widespread antimicrobial resistance of M. genitalium.

Sample Stability: 7 days at 37°C and 50°C, 14 days at room temperature, as well as refrigerated and frozen temperatures.

Turnaround Time: 98% < 72 hours, 50% < 24 hours

Directorship: Cheryl Hanau, MD; Garth Ehrlich, PhD, FAAAS, FAAM; Donald Hall Jr., PhD; Yinghua Qiu, PhD, DABCC

The information on these pages is provided for general information only and should not be used for diagnosis or treatment, or as a substitute for consultation with a physician or health care professional. If you have specific questions or concerns about your health, you should consult your health care professional.

 
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