Chlamydia Nucleic Acid Amplification Test, Chlamydia NAAT Test

Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) are the most sensitive tests for the screening and diagnosis of genital chlamydial infections (6). NAATs are more sensitive than previously available diagnostic tests (culture, antigen detection, or nucleic acid hybridization) by at least 20 to 30%. Chlamydia is an infection caused by the Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria. The most common bacterial sexually transmitted disease (STD) in the U.S., chlamydia is usually spread through vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Untreated chlamydia infections can lead to serious health issues including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility.

Chlamydia testing is used to screen and diagnose this bacterial infection; samples include urine and swabs of fluid from the vagina, cervix, throat, or rectum.

What does chlamydia PCR positive mean?

If the test is positive, the lab detected the bacteria that cause chlamydia. This means you have a chlamydia infection and will need treatment (antibiotic medications). You will also need to notify your sexual partners, so they can get tested, too.

Can you test negative for chlamydia and still have it?

In some cases, a person may also have a false-negative test result. This can happen if they test too soon after exposure. For example, if a person tests the day after sex with a partner who has chlamydia, the bacteria may not have had the chance to grow to detectable levels.