Chlamydia trachomatis DNA Detection PCR Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About Chlamydia trachomatis DNA Detection PCR Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | CT DNA PCR, Chlamydia PCR, Chlamydia NAAT, C. trachomatis DNA Detection |
| Sample Type | Urine (first-void) |
| Fasting Required | No |
| Report Time | 4 Days |
| Recommended For | All sexually active individuals, especially women under 25, pregnant women, and those with STI symptoms or risk factors |
| Price | Starting at ₹5,000 |
What is a Chlamydia trachomatis DNA Detection PCR Test?
The Chlamydia trachomatis DNA detection PCR test identifies the genetic material of the Chlamydia trachomatis bacterium in a urine sample. PCR, or polymerase chain reaction, is a laboratory method that amplifies trace amounts of bacterial DNA to make detection reliable. Doctors prescribe this test when they suspect a chlamydial infection or as part of routine sexual health screening. It is also known as CT DNA PCR, Chlamydia PCR, or Chlamydia NAAT.
What Does a Chlamydia trachomatis DNA Detection PCR Test Measure?
This test checks for one specific thing: whether the DNA of Chlamydia trachomatis is present in your sample. It is a qualitative test, meaning it gives a "Detected" or "Not Detected" result rather than a numerical value.
| What is Detected | Why it Matters |
|---|---|
| Chlamydia trachomatis DNA | Confirms whether an active chlamydial infection is present in the body |
Because the test targets bacterial DNA directly, it can identify an infection even when symptoms are absent or mild.
Why is a Chlamydia trachomatis DNA Detection PCR Test Done?
A doctor may recommend the Chlamydia trachomatis DNA detection PCR test for several reasons, from investigating symptoms to routine screening for at-risk individuals.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
The following symptoms are among the most common reasons a doctor may order this test:
- Painful or burning sensation when urinating
- Unusual discharge from the vagina, penis, or rectum
- Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Rectal pain or bleeding
- Nausea or fever when an infection has spread
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
The test can help identify a range of conditions linked to Chlamydia trachomatis infection:
- Cervicitis (inflammation of the cervix) and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women
- Urethritis (inflammation of the urethra) in both men and women
- Epididymitis (inflammation of the tubes that carry sperm) in men
- Prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland)
- Conjunctivitis (eye infection) and pneumonia in newborns born to infected mothers
- Reactive arthritis, a type of joint inflammation associated with chlamydial infection
Chlamydia trachomatis DNA Detection PCR Test During Pregnancy
Pregnant women, especially those under 25 or at increased risk, are advised to be screened at their first prenatal visit and again during the third trimester. An untreated infection during pregnancy can cause complications for both the mother and the baby, including pneumonia and eye infections in the newborn. Repeat testing around four weeks after completing treatment is also recommended during pregnancy to confirm that the infection has cleared.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
The Chlamydia trachomatis DNA detection PCR test procedure is straightforward and requires no fasting. A urine sample is all that is needed for most patients.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required before this test. You can eat and drink normally beforehand.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Following these steps will help ensure an accurate result:
- Do not urinate for at least two hours before collecting your urine sample
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results, and any relevant medical history, as this is required for the test
- Collect only the first portion of your urine stream, not midstream urine
- Avoid using vaginal creams or douching before sample collection, as these may interfere with results
- Inform your doctor about any antibiotics you are currently taking, as recent antibiotic use can affect the outcome
Step-by-Step Procedure
Here is what happens during the Chlamydia trachomatis DNA detection PCR test sample collection:
- You will be given a sterile container for urine collection.
- Do not urinate for at least two hours before collecting the sample.
- When ready, collect only the first portion of your urine stream (approximately 5 ml) into the sterile container. Do not use midstream urine.
- Seal and label the container clearly with your name and the date and time of collection.
- Hand the sample to the collection centre or home collection professional, who will ensure it is stored at the correct temperature for transport.
- The sample is sent to the laboratory, where PCR analysis is carried out to detect bacterial DNA.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Several factors can influence the reliability of the test result:
- Recent antibiotic use before testing
- Improper urine collection (e.g., using midstream urine instead of first-catch)
- Testing too soon after exposure (within the first week)
- Presence of blood or high bilirubin in the sample
- Stage of infection and the number of bacteria present at the time of testing
Understanding Your Chlamydia trachomatis DNA Detection PCR Test Results
Your result will be reported as either "Detected" or "Not Detected." Here is a simple guide to understanding what each outcome means.
| Result | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Not Detected | Chlamydia trachomatis DNA was not found in the sample; no active infection identified |
| Detected | Chlamydia trachomatis DNA was found; strongly supports a diagnosis of active chlamydial infection |
These ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your age, health history, and other factors. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical advice.
Results During Special Conditions
Two situations can make interpreting your result less straightforward:
- Testing very soon after exposure (within the first seven days) may produce a false-negative result, as the body needs 7 to 21 days to build detectable levels of the bacterium. If your symptoms are strong but your result is negative, your doctor may recommend retesting.
- This test should not be used to confirm that treatment has worked. Residual bacterial DNA from dead bacteria can remain in the body for several weeks after completing antibiotic treatment, which may cause a positive result even when the infection has cleared. Doctors typically recommend waiting three to four weeks after treatment before retesting.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
These general wellness practices can support your sexual health:
- Use condoms consistently to reduce the risk of chlamydial infection and other sexually transmitted infections
- Get tested regularly if you are sexually active, particularly with new or multiple partners
- If you receive a positive result, ensure that your sexual partner is also tested and, if necessary, treated
Lupin Diagnostics Chlamydia trachomatis DNA Detection PCR Test Price and Home Collection
The Chlamydia trachomatis DNA detection PCR test is available at Lupin Diagnostics starting at ₹5,000, with home sample collection available across major cities.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 5000 |
| CHENNAI | 5000 |
| HYDERABAD | 5000 |
| KOLKATA | 5000 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 5000 |
| PUNE | 5000 |
Disclaimer: Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
Follow these steps to book your Chlamydia trachomatis DNA detection PCR test online:
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred time slot.
- Opt for home sample collection by a certified phlebotomist, or visit your nearest Lupin Diagnostics centre.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Home Collection
Chlamydia trachomatis DNA detection PCR test home collection is available across cities through Lupin Diagnostics. A trained professional visits your home to collect the urine sample, ensuring privacy and convenience. All samples are processed in NABL-accredited laboratories, and your report is delivered digitally once ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Chlamydia trachomatis DNA detection PCR test is a laboratory test that looks for the DNA of the Chlamydia trachomatis bacterium in a urine sample. It uses PCR technology to detect even small amounts of bacterial genetic material, making it highly sensitive for identifying active infections. A result is reported as either "Detected" or "Not Detected."
An antibody test checks for your body's immune response to the infection. The Chlamydia trachomatis DNA detection PCR test looks for the bacterium's DNA directly, which makes it more accurate for diagnosing an active infection. PCR-based tests can detect the infection even before the immune system has produced measurable antibodies.
It is best to wait at least one to two weeks after potential exposure before taking the test. Testing within the first week may give a false-negative result because the bacterium may not yet be present at detectable levels. If you have symptoms sooner, speak to a doctor about when to test.
Yes, PCR-based testing is among the most accurate methods available for detecting chlamydial infection. A negative result is accurate for around 99 in every 100 people, and a positive result is accurate for at least 90 in every 100 people. Accuracy depends on correct sample collection and the timing of the test.
Yes, the Chlamydia trachomatis DNA detection PCR test home collection is available through Lupin Diagnostics. A certified professional will visit your home to collect the urine sample. The sample is then transported to an NABL-accredited laboratory for PCR analysis.
Yes, and it is recommended. Pregnant women at risk of chlamydial infection should be screened at their first prenatal visit. If untreated, chlamydia can cause complications for the baby, including eye infections and pneumonia after birth. Speak to your gynaecologist about whether and when to get screened during pregnancy.
No, this test is not suitable for confirming treatment success. Bacterial DNA can remain in the body for several weeks after the infection has cleared, which may lead to a positive result even when you are no longer infected. Your doctor will advise you on when and how to retest after completing your treatment.
Chlamydia trachomatis DNA Detection PCR Test: Booking, Price, and Results
