STD Expanded Panel

Test Overview

The STD Expanded Panel is a comprehensive diagnostic tool designed to detect a wide range of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This panel combines molecular testing (PCR), immunoassays, and culture methods to ensure precise and accurate detection. It is ideal for individuals seeking a thorough STI screening for peace of mind or due to concerning symptoms.

Conditions and Pathogens Detected

Bacterial Infections:

Chlamydia trachomatis – Common cause of genital infections
Neisseria gonorrhoeae – Causes gonorrhea
Mycoplasma genitalium – Linked to persistent urethritis and cervicitis
Ureaplasma urealyticum – Often found in genital infections
Treponema pallidum (Syphilis) – Detects active syphilis infection

Viral Infections:

Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV-1) – Can cause oral and genital sores
Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (HSV-2) – Commonly associated with genital herpes
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) – Identifies high-risk strains linked to cervical and other cancers
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV-1 & HIV-2) – Screens for both types of HIV
Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) – Identifies chronic or acute hepatitis B infection
Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) – Detects hepatitis C infection

Parasitic Infection:

Trichomonas vaginalis – Common STI that causes irritation and discharge

Symptoms That May Require This Panel

Unusual genital discharge
Burning sensation during urination
Genital sores, ulcers, or irritation
Pelvic pain or discomfort
Painful intercourse
Swollen lymph nodes in the groin
Flu-like symptoms (fever, fatigue, body aches)
Abnormal vaginal bleeding or spotting

Sample Collection

Sample Type:
- Urine sample (preferred for bacterial STIs)
- Genital swab (for higher accuracy with some infections)
- Blood sample (for viral infections like HIV, HBV, and HCV)
Container: Sterile urine collection cup, swab with transport medium, or blood vial
Collection Tips: Avoid urinating for at least 1 hour before urine sample collection. For swabs, ensure thorough sample collection from the appropriate site

Result Interpretation

Test Component:	Normal (Negative):	Abnormal (Positive):
Chlamydia trachomatis	Not Detected	Detected – Confirms Chlamydia infection
Neisseria gonorrhoeae	Not Detected	Detected – Confirms Gonorrhea
Mycoplasma genitalium	Not Detected	Detected – May indicate persistent urethritis
Treponema pallidum (Syphilis)	Not Detected	Detected – Confirms Syphilis
Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV-1)	Not Detected	Detected – Confirms HSV-1
Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (HSV-2)	Not Detected	Detected – Confirms HSV-2
Trichomonas vaginalis	Not Detected	Detected – Confirms Trichomoniasis
HIV-1 & HIV-2	Negative	Positive – Requires confirmatory testing
Hepatitis B Virus (HBV)	Negative	Positive – Indicates active or chronic HBV infection
Hepatitis C Virus (HCV)	Negative	Positive – Confirms HCV infection

Treatment Guidance Based on Results:

Chlamydia / Gonorrhea / Mycoplasma → Antibiotic therapy (Azithromycin, Doxycycline, or Ceftriaxone)
Syphilis (Treponema pallidum) → Penicillin G (First-line treatment)
HSV-1 / HSV-2 → Antiviral therapy (Acyclovir, Valacyclovir)
HIV → Immediate referral to an HIV specialist for antiviral treatment
Hepatitis B / C → Specialized antiviral treatment plans