ARUP's Laboratory Test Directory

Chlamydia trachomatis by Transcription-Mediated Amplification (TMA) : 0060243

Mnemonic: CTAMD

Ordering Recommendation: Use to detect Chlamydia trachomatis. In individuals at risk for Neisseria gonorrhoeae, preferred test is one of the combined nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT) [ie, Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae by Transcription-Mediated Amplification (TMA) (0060241)].
Methodology: Qualitative Target Amplification Nucleic Acid Probe
Performed: Sun-Sat
Reported: 1-2 days
Specimen Required: Collect: Endocervical, pharyngeal, rectal,or vaginal swab, first catch urine, or male urethral swabs. Collect in APTIMA Combo 2 Assay transport media (ARUP supply: Swabs #28907, Urine #28908). Available online through eSupply using ARUP Connect™ or contact ARUP Client Services at (800) 522-2787. Refer to Sample Collection for the Diagnosis of STD under Specimen Handling at www.aruplab.com for specific specimen collection and transport instructions.

Specimen Preparation: Transfer swab or urine to APTIMA Combo 2 Assay transport media. (Min: 2 mL urine)

Storage/Transport Temperature: Refrigerated.

Remarks: Specimen source is required.

Unacceptable Conditions: Large white swab is for preparatory cleaning of the endocervix and is unacceptable for testing. Specimens in any transport media other than indicated above. Specimen in swab transport media without a swab.

Stability (collection to initiation of testing): Unpreserved Urine: Ambient: 24 hours; Refrigerated: 24 hours; Frozen: Unacceptable. APTIMA Transport Media: Swab: Ambient: 2 months; Refrigerated: 2 months; Frozen: 12 months Urine: Ambient: 1 month; Refrigerated: 1 month; Frozen: 12 months
Reference Interval:
Negative
Interpretive Data: Positive results are confirmed using an alternative nucleic acid target in accordance with CDC guidelines. See: Screening Tests to Detect Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae Infections - 2002. (http://www.cdc.gov/std/LabGuidelines/rr5115.pdf)

This test is intended for medical purposes only and is not valid for the evaluation of suspected sexual abuse or for other forensic purposes. In certain contexts, culture may be required to meet applicable laws and regulations for diagnosis of C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae infections.
Note: Culture is recommended for Chlamydia trachomatis detection in cases of suspected sexual abuse or suspected failure of therapy.

Specimens must be collected and transported in the manufacturer's test specific kits.
CPT Code(s): 87491
Cross References: Chlamydia trachomatis by Nucleic Acid Amplification (Chlamydia trachomatis by Amplified Detection (APTIMA(R)))