Name of the Procedure:

Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); Gardnerella vaginalis, amplified probe technique

Summary

This test detects the presence of Gardnerella vaginalis, a bacterium that can cause bacterial vaginosis, by amplifying its DNA or RNA. It uses advanced molecular techniques to identify the infectious agent with high accuracy.

Purpose

The procedure aims to diagnose bacterial vaginosis (BV), an infection characterized by an overgrowth of certain bacteria in the vagina. Accurate detection helps guide appropriate treatment, alleviating symptoms and preventing complications.

Indications

• Unusual vaginal discharge or odor
• Vaginal itching or irritation
• Suspected bacterial vaginosis based on clinical symptoms
• Follow-up after treatment of bacterial vaginosis

The procedure is most appropriate for women experiencing symptoms of BV or those needing confirmation of treatment efficacy.

Preparation

• No special preparation is usually required.
• Patients should inform their healthcare provider about any medications they are taking.
• Avoid douching or using vaginal creams or medications 24 hours before the test.

Procedure Description

1. A healthcare provider collects a sample of vaginal fluid using a swab.
2. The swab is sent to a laboratory where nucleic acid amplification techniques, such as PCR (polymerase chain reaction), are used to detect Gardnerella vaginalis DNA or RNA.
3. The amplified probe technique targets specific genetic sequences unique to Gardnerella vaginalis to confirm its presence.

No anesthesia or sedation is needed for this non-invasive sample collection.

Duration

The sample collection takes only a few minutes. Laboratory analysis can take a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the lab's processing time.

Setting

The sample collection is typically performed in a healthcare provider's office, clinic, or hospital.

Personnel

• Primary care provider, gynecologist, or nurse collects the sample.
• Medical laboratory scientists or technicians conduct the laboratory analysis.

Risks and Complications

• Minimal risk of discomfort or irritation during sample collection.
• Rarely, a false positive/negative result due to improper sample handling or technical errors.

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis.
• Facilitates appropriate treatment, reducing symptoms and preventing complications.
• Quick and non-invasive procedure.

Recovery

No recovery time is needed post-sample collection. Patients can resume normal activities immediately. Follow-up appointments depend on test results and ongoing symptoms.

Alternatives

• Wet mount microscopy: Examines vaginal discharge under a microscope.
• Gram stain: Identifies bacterial presence and types.
• Clinical criteria-based diagnosis: Based on symptoms and physical examination.

These alternatives may have varying accuracy and may be used in conjunction with or instead of nucleic acid detection.

Patient Experience

Patients might experience slight discomfort during the swabbing, but it is generally quick and mildly irritating at most. Post-collection, there is no pain or required downtime, making it a convenient diagnostic tool.