: Trichomonas vaginalis DNA Detection, Qualitative, Vaginal Fluid or Prosthetic Fluid, Multiplex Nucleic Acid Amplification
: A molecular test that detects genetic material from Trichomonas vaginalis in vaginal or prosthetic fluid samples to help diagnose trichomoniasis.
[": A positive result generally indicates presence of Trichomonas vaginalis nucleic acid and supports a diagnosis of trichomoniasis."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 72277-7
- Short code
- T vaginalis Prost fld Ql Micro
- Synonyms
- T vaginalis Prost fld Ql Micro
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- microscopy-light
- 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 This Test Measures
: The test looks for DNA from the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis in fluid collected from the vagina or from a prosthetic device. Because it targets genetic material, it can identify very small amounts of the organism.
: How the Test Is Performed
: A healthcare professional collects a fluid specimen from the affected area and sends it to a laboratory. The laboratory uses a nucleic acid amplification technique, often as part of a multiplex panel, to detect the organism.
: What Results Mean
: A positive result means Trichomonas vaginalis genetic material was detected and can support a diagnosis of trichomoniasis. A negative result means it was not detected at the time of testing, though results should always be interpreted with symptoms, exposure history, and other findings.
: Important Limitations
: Test performance depends on proper sample collection and on whether the organism is present in the sampled fluid. Results should be discussed with a clinician, and repeat or additional testing may sometimes be recommended.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
: Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by Trichomonas vaginalis. Molecular detection is highly sensitive and specific compared with older microscopic methods, making it useful for diagnosis even when symptoms are mild or absent. Treatment decisions should consider symptoms, sexual history, and concurrent testing for other STIs.
Short name
: T. vaginalis PCR (Vaginal/Prosthetic Fluid)
Frequently asked questions
: Is a positive result proof of infection?
: Does a negative result rule out trichomoniasis?
: Should sexual partners be tested or treated?
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