Martha's Case: The Unwelcome Phone Call

You chose 3: that is incorrect.

The correct answer is 1: Cervix.

When screening for chlamydia, nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT - i.e. PCR, LCR) on a cervical specimen are normally performed. To ensure adequate contact between the test swab and the cervix, it is important to first clear the cervix of mucous using a swab that is discarded, prior to testing with a second swab.

Specimens from the throat or anus for chlamydia should not be included in STI screening and should only be performed if they represent the only point of sexual contact or for diagnostic purposes if symptoms of the throat or anus are present. Such specimens should be sent for culture, not NAAT or ELISA testing.

Martha is not experiencing any symptoms of the throat or anus.