Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be caused by different types of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. While some cause obvious symptoms, others may go unnoticed or present with non-specific signs, making them difficult to identify based on clinical symptoms alone.

In these cases, having a reliable diagnostic test is essential to identify the microorganism responsible and guide the most appropriate treatment.

At Echevarne Laboratory, we offer an STI detection test using PCR technology, a molecular technique that can detect some of the most common pathogens from a simple urine sample.

In this article, we explain what this test consists of, the information it provides, and when it may be recommended.

What are sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?

sexual contact.

Depending on the causative microorganism, they may be caused by:

• Bacteria
• Viruses
• Fungi
• Parasites

Each of these microorganisms requires a different diagnostic and therapeutic approach. For this reason, identifying the microorganism responsible for the infection is an essential step in enabling healthcare professionals to determine the most appropriate treatment.

Why is it important to identify the microorganism responsible?

One of the main challenges of STIs is that they do not always cause symptoms.

In some cases, the infection may progress silently for a period of time. In others, the symptoms may be mistaken for those of other conditions or may be very similar regardless of the microorganism causing them.

Therefore, relying solely on symptoms may not be enough for an accurate diagnosis.

Laboratory tests make it possible to confirm or rule out the presence of specific microorganisms using dedicated techniques, providing objective information that helps healthcare professionals make an accurate diagnosis.

What is PCR and why is it used in this test?

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) is a molecular technique widely used in clinical diagnostics.

It works by detecting the genetic material of microorganisms present in a sample.

As a result, it offers several important advantages, including:

• High sensitivity.
• High specificity.
• Reliable results that support clinical diagnosis.
• Accurate identification of the microorganism being analyzed.

These characteristics have made PCR one of the reference techniques for detecting numerous infectious diseases.

Which microorganisms does the test detect?

The Echevarne Laboratory STI Detection Test uses PCR technology to analyze seven of the most common microorganisms associated with sexually transmitted infections:

• Chlamydia trachomatis
• Neisseria gonorrhoeae
• Mycoplasma genitalium
• Mycoplasma hominis
• Ureaplasma urealyticum
• Ureaplasma parvum
• Trichomonas vaginalis

Identifying the microorganism helps guide the clinical diagnosis and enables healthcare professionals to determine the most appropriate treatment for each individual case.

When may this test be recommended?

This test may be useful in different situations, always following clinical assessment.

These include:

• When symptoms suggest a possible infection.
• When it is necessary to confirm or rule out an infection.
• When a healthcare professional recommends performing the test.

If you have any symptoms or concerns, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for an individualized assessment.

How is the test performed?

One of the main advantages of this test is its simplicity.

Detection is carried out using a urine sample, avoiding invasive procedures.

The sample is then analyzed in the laboratory using PCR technology to detect the genetic material of the microorganisms included in the test.

It is a confidential, simple, and reliable test designed to provide valuable information during the diagnostic process.

A test available for both men and women

At Echevarne Laboratory, we offer a specific test for men, the Complete 7-STI Test for Men, and another for women, the Complete 7-STI Test for Women.

Both tests use PCR technology and analyze the same seven microorganisms from a simple urine sample, while being tailored to the needs of each patient.

The value of an accurate diagnosis

In the field of infectious diseases, correctly identifying the microorganism responsible is the first step toward guiding the clinical diagnosis and determining the most appropriate treatment.

Molecular biology techniques such as PCR provide reliable information that supports healthcare professionals in making informed clinical decisions and contributes to more accurate patient care.

If you would like more information about the Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Detection Test, you can consult our healthcare professionals or visit any Echevarne Laboratory center.