Culture-based detection of bacterial pathogens present in the genital tract, including N. gonorrhoeae
Microbiology
Bacteriology
○ Vaginal swabs
○ Cervical/urethral swabs (detection of N. gonorrhoeae only)
○ Penis swabs
○ Seminal fluid
Other Information
○ If Trichomonas vaginalis detection required, an additional specimen must be submitted (See: Trichomonas vaginalis) and transported to the laboratory within 15 minutes of collection
○ If Neisseria gonorrhoeae or Chlamydia trachomatis detection by PCR is required, see: Gonorrhoea & Chlamydia - detection
○ Neisseria gonorrhoeae culture on vaginal swabs need to be specifically requested
○ Sterile swab in Amies transport medium (eSwab) ○ Sterile container for seminal fluid
Vaginal swab: Collect swabs from the posterior vaginal vault or vaginal orifice and transport the swab in Amies transport medium. Cervical swab: Collect specimen for GC from the endocervical canal using a clean, sterile swab and transport the swab in Amies transport medium. Urethral swab: Exudate from the urethra should be collected using a clean, sterile swab and transported in Amies transport medium. Seminal fluid: The periurethral area and hands should be washed and urine should be passed immediately before seminal fluid collection. Using as much of an aseptic technique as possible, seminal fluid should be collected by masturbation directly into a clean, sterile container.
Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery
In-house
○ up to 72h
416-586-4800 extension 4447
NO
○ Label specimen container. Place specimens in biohazard bag and seal.
○ Specimens should be stored at room temperature (20-25˚C) after collection and submitted to the UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory ASAP