Name of the Procedure:

Infectious Agent Detection by Nucleic Acid (DNA or RNA); Gardnerella vaginalis, Quantification

Summary

This test identifies and measures the amount of Gardnerella vaginalis, a bacteria commonly associated with bacterial vaginosis, using DNA or RNA analysis.

Purpose

The procedure aims to diagnose bacterial vaginosis by detecting and quantifying Gardnerella vaginalis. Accurate diagnosis helps in appropriate treatment planning, alleviating symptoms, and preventing complications.

Indications

• Symptoms such as abnormal vaginal discharge, odor, itching, or irritation.
• Recurrent urinary tract infections.
• Pre-surgical screening or pregnancy-related evaluation.

Preparation

• No special preparation is typically needed.
• Patients may be advised to avoid using vaginal creams, douching, or engaging in sexual activity 24 hours before the test.
• Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking.

Procedure Description

1. A healthcare provider collects a vaginal swab sample.
2. The sample is sent to the laboratory where DNA or RNA extraction from Gardnerella vaginalis is performed.
3. Quantitative analysis is conducted using methods like PCR (polymerase chain reaction) to determine the bacterial load.

Duration

The swab collection takes a few minutes, while laboratory analysis can take several hours to a few days.

Setting

The procedure is typically performed in an outpatient clinic, doctor's office, or hospital laboratory.

Personnel

• A nurse or doctor usually collects the sample.
• Laboratory technicians and microbiologists perform the analysis.

Risks and Complications

• Mild discomfort or irritation during sample collection.
• Rarely, minor bleeding or infection.

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis.
• Helps guide appropriate antibiotic treatment.
• Prevents complications like pelvic inflammatory disease or adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Recovery

• No recovery time is needed.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately.
• Follow-up may be required to discuss results and treatment.

Alternatives

• Clinical diagnosis based on symptoms and physical examination.
• Microscopic examination of vaginal discharge (wet mount).
• Culture-based methods for identifying Gardnerella vaginalis.
• Each alternative may vary in accuracy and time to diagnosis.

Patient Experience

• During the swab collection, patients may feel mild discomfort similar to a Pap smear.
• Post-procedure, there are no significant after-effects, and normal activities can be continued.
• Pain management is usually not required, as the procedure is minimally invasive.