PCR-Based Assay for HPV, Gonorrhea, and Chlamydia

A new test that utilizes polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology can detect and identify the human papillopmavirus (HPV) along with gonorrhea and chlamydia from a single specimen.

Called HPV TriSect, the assay is validated for the most commonly utilized collection materials, including ThinPrep, SurePath, and endocervical swabs in transport media. PCR is highly sensitive for the early detection of low-level viral infections and is highly specific, resulting in very low false positive and false negative rates. HPV genotyping is conveniently reflexed from all positive HPV specimens. The assay has a 96-hour turnaround time.

The assay is the product of Esoterix, Inc. (Austin, TX, USA; www.esoterix.com). Current US guidelines recommend HPV testing as a triage management strategy for inconclusive Pap tests. Exoterix notes that the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend routine testing for gonorrhea and chlamydia in at-risk women and women under 25, since early detection can lead to a reduced risk of infection, including pelvic inflammatory disease. Nearly three out of four women between the ages of 15 and 49 in the United States alone have been infected with genital HPV, according to the company.




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