Chlamydia trachomatis and Trichomonas vaginalis Nucleic Acid Testing
Detects the genetic material of Chlamydia trachomatis and Trichomonas vaginalis, which are sexually transmitted infections that may cause few or no symptoms.
["A positive result means one or both infections were detected and should be discussed with a healthcare professional."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 36141-0
- Short code
- CTA TA + AA W contr IV
- Synonyms
- CTA TA + AA W contr IV
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ct-angio
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This laboratory test looks for the genetic material of Chlamydia trachomatis and Trichomonas vaginalis in a patient sample. It is commonly performed using a nucleic acid amplification method and may be ordered as part of a sexually transmitted infection panel.
Why might I need this test?
Testing may be recommended because of symptoms such as unusual vaginal discharge, genital itching, painful urination, or pelvic discomfort. It may also be done routinely for someone who is sexually active, has a new partner, or was exposed to a sexually transmitted infection.
How is the test performed?
A clinician or laboratory collects a urine sample or a swab from the genital area according to the test's instructions. The laboratory then checks the sample for genetic material from Chlamydia trachomatis, Trichomonas vaginalis, or both.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the laboratory's collection instructions carefully because the type of urine or swab and the timing of collection can affect the result. Urine tests commonly use a first-catch sample, and the laboratory may ask you not to urinate for a short period beforehand. Tell the clinician if you recently took antibiotics or had treatment for these infections.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result indicates that genetic material from Chlamydia trachomatis, Trichomonas vaginalis, or both was detected. Infection may be present even when there are no symptoms, so any positive result should be reviewed and treated as appropriate by a healthcare professional. If Chlamydia is detected, testing and treatment of sexual partners are also generally recommended.
Short name
CT/TV nucleic acid test
Frequently asked questions
Can these infections be present without symptoms?
Does a negative result rule out these infections?
What should I do if the result is positive?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy