How is mycoplasma tested in gynecological examinations?
Disease description:
Recently, I have been feeling that I might need a gynecological examination for mycoplasma. May I ask, how is a gynecological examination for mycoplasma performed?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu
Gynecological testing for mycoplasma is primarily conducted through the following methods:
1. Mycoplasma culture: The doctor uses a vaginal speculum to open the vagina and expose the cervix. A specialized small brush is then used to collect secretions from the posterior vaginal fornix, which are subsequently placed on a specific culture medium for cultivation. This method may require 48-72 hours to yield results.
2. Nucleic acid amplification techniques (NAT): Including polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR, these methods directly detect mycoplasma DNA or RNA in the sample. They offer high sensitivity and specificity and are currently the most widely used testing methods in clinical practice.
3. Serological testing: By detecting antibody levels in the blood, this method determines whether there has been exposure to mycoplasma. It is helpful in confirming whether a patient currently has a mycoplasma infection or has had a previous infection.
4. Antigen detection: Immunological methods are used to detect mycoplasma antigens in samples, such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). However, its sensitivity is relatively low and it is not as accurate as NAT.
