Gonorrhoeae Screening Test

Service Description

BIOMARKER: Neisseria Gonorrhoeae SAMPLE: Swab RESULTS: Same Day Neisseria Gonorrhoeae is a species of Gram-negative diplococci bacteria responsible for the STI known as gonorrhoea. They are Gram-negative, meaning they do not retain the crystal violet stain used in the Gram staining method, appearing pink or red instead of purple. The bacteria are transmitted through sexual contact and can also be passed from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. While infection sites have traditionally been associated with the mucous membranes of the urethra in men and the cervix in women, N. gonorrhoeae can also infect the rectum, throat, and conjunctiva of the eyes. Symptoms: The infection might be asymptomatic, particularly in women, which can lead to undetected spread and complications. When symptoms do occur: In Men: -- Painful urination -- Discharge from the penis (often described as creamy or greenish) -- Testicular pain or swelling In Women: -- Increased vaginal discharge -- Painful urination -- Vaginal bleeding between periods or after sexual intercourse -- Lower abdominal pain In Other Areas: -- Rectal infection might cause anal itching, discharge, or painful bowel movements. -- Throat infection might be asymptomatic or cause a sore throat. -- Eye infection can lead to conjunctivitis with discharge from the eyes. Complications: -- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) in women, which can lead to infertility, ectopic pregnancy, or chronic pelvic pain. -- Epididymitis in men, which might cause infertility. -- Disseminated Gonococcal Infection (DGI), where the bacteria spread through the bloodstream, leading to arthritis, skin lesions, or infection of the heart valves.