Chlamydia trachomatis Antigen Detection, Direct Immunofluorescence (DIF) (DISCONTINUED)

Chlamydia are intracellular organisms that infect epithelial surfaces. As such, specimens collected must contain as many epithelial cells as possible. Hence, specimens should ideally be swabs of epithelial surfaces with a good sampling of cells, e.g, conjunctival swabs, urethral swabs, cervical swabs. Patient samples that are obtained by swabs should be smeared onto the well of the Teflon-coated slide (obtainable from the laboratory, Tel: 6394-1352 / 6394-1354) at the bedside. The slide should be air-dried and dispatched to the laboratory in a slide container. General principles for collection of swab specimens:

1 Wipe off excess mucous/pus from site with cotton or Dacron swab. Dispose of swab.
2a Urethra: Insert small Dacron swab 2-4 cm into urethra, rotate swab and withdraw.
2b Cervix: Insert large or small Dacron swab into endocervix canal until most of the tip is not visible. Rotate for 5–10 seconds inside canal, withdraw swab without touching any vaginal surfaces.
2c Conjunctival swabs: Using a small Dacron swab, thoroughly swab the inner surface of the lower, then the upper eyelid.
3 Smear onto the well of Teflon coated slide. Send separate slide for each conjunctival swab.
4 Air dry completely. For NPA or ETTA sample, send in sterile container.

The following types of specimens will be Rejected by the laboratory: Body fluids e.g. semen and urine