Molecular Pathology Laboratory Network

The CDC recommends that all sexually active adolescent women be screened for chlamydia trachomatis (CT) at least once a year. Close to half of chlamydia cases (46%) occur in women ages 15-19 and another 33% of infections occur in females between 20 and 24. Of all reported neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) cases, 75% occur in individuals between 15 and 29 years of age.

The Gen-Probe APTIMA COMBO 2 Assay for CT and NG virtually eliminates inhibition problems and cross-reactivity. The sensitivity of the test has shown to be superior to culture and direct specimen tests. The test's greater sensitivity permits use of specimens other than endocervical swabs for women and urethral swabs for men. It is the only assay with urine specimen sensitivity equivalent to a swab specimen.

Sensitvity and Specificity of Aptima Combo 2 Assay for CT/NG

The APTIMA COMBO 2 Assayreliably detect <1 CT elementary body (EB)/ml and ~500 NG cells/ml across all specimen types. MPLN has validated the assay for use with ThinPrep® PAP solution and the SurePath® Test Pack.

Test Information and Specimen Requirements

CT / NG qualitative testing by Aptima COMBO® 2: » 

For more information about our infectious disease testing, contact one of our service specialists at 800-932-2943.

Our Testing Resources

Liquid cytology testing for HPV, CTNG, HSV and CF

CDC sexually transmitted diseases treatment guidelines

CT / NG Journal Articles

Chernesky M et al. (2006). High Analytical Sensitivity and Low Rates of Inhibition May Contribute to Detection of Chlamydia trachomatis in Significantly More Women by the APTIMA Combo 2 Assay. J Clin Microbiol. Feb; 44(2):400-5.»