Memphis-based American Esoteric Laboratories (AEL) has expanded its test offerings for women with the addition of the Trichomonas Amplified Probe test and has improved its high-risk HPV testing capabilities. The Trichomonas Amplified Probe is a nucleic acid amplification test designed to detect a sexually transmitted parasite known as Trichomonas vaginalis. This test is cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for in vitro diagnostic use.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control estimate that 7.4 million individuals are infected with Trichomonas annually. Trichomonas vaginalis can cause vaginitis, urethritis, and premature membrane rupture in pregnancy, and makes women more susceptible to infection with HIV-1.
Prior to the advent of molecular technology testing for Trichomonas, the parasite was typically detected with culture methods, which are slower and less sensitive, requiring microscopic examination of the specimen shortly after it is collected. The Trichomonas Amplified Probe test can be performed off a urine sample, swab collection tube, or thin prep PAP vial. It also can be ordered as a single test or as part of a panel of tests.
Additionally, AEL is now using the Roche polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method for HPV high-risk testing, which allows the reporting of HPV types 16 and 18 with every result. Women with these virus types are at the highest risk of developing cervical cancer. HPV16 is the most carcinogenic HPV genotype and accounts for approximately 55% to 60% of cervical cancers. HPV18 is the second most carcinogenic genotype, accounting for approximately 10% to 15% of cervical cancers. Learn more about services offered by AEL.
