Name of the Procedure:

Infectious Agent Detection by Nucleic Acid (DNA or RNA); Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Direct Probe Technique

Summary

This procedure involves detecting the genetic material (DNA or RNA) of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the bacterium that causes gonorrhea, using a specialized probe technique. This method allows for the direct identification of the bacteria from a patient's sample.

Purpose

Medical Condition: Gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted infection Goals: The goal is to accurately and quickly identify the presence of Neisseria gonorrhoeae in order to facilitate prompt treatment and prevent complications or further transmission.

Indications

• Symptoms such as unusual discharge, pain during urination, or genital sores
• High-risk sexual activity
• Follow-up testing post-treatment
• Screening in pregnant women to prevent neonatal infection

Preparation

• No fasting required.
• Patients may be advised to avoid urinating one hour before the sample is collected.
• Inform the healthcare provider of any current medications or treatments.

Procedure Description

1. Sample Collection: A healthcare provider collects a sample from the affected area (e.g., urine, swab from the genital area, throat, or rectum).
2. Laboratory Processing:
   • The sample is processed in a laboratory where the nucleic acids (DNA or RNA) are extracted.
   • A probe containing a sequence of DNA or RNA complementary to the bacterial genetic material is added to the sample.
   • If Neisseria gonorrhoeae DNA or RNA is present, it will bind to the probe, producing a detectable signal.

Tools/Equipment: Swabs, collection containers, nucleic acid extraction kits, probe detection systems Anesthesia/Sedation: Not required

Duration

The sample collection takes a few minutes. Laboratory analysis may take a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the facility.

Setting

• Outpatient clinic
• Laboratory

Personnel

• Nurse or technician for sample collection
• Laboratory technologist for sample analysis
• Healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment discussion

Risks and Complications

• Minimal risk associated with sample collection
• Rare complications might include minor discomfort or irritation at the collection site

Benefits

• Rapid and accurate detection of Neisseria gonorrhoeae
• Enables prompt and appropriate treatment
• Reduces the risk of complications and transmission to others

Recovery

• No recovery time needed post-sample collection
• Follow healthcare provider’s recommendations for treatment if the test is positive

Alternatives

• Culture tests: Slower results, involves growing the bacteria in a lab.
• Rapid antigen tests: Generally less accurate but provide quicker results.
• Serology tests: Not typically used for active infection detection.

Patient Experience

• Mild discomfort during sample collection
• Minimal to no pain
• Anxiety relief with a prompt and accurate diagnosis
• If positive, peace of mind with effective treatment options and follow-up care