A novel gel-based method for self-collection and ambient temperature postal transport of urine for PCR detection of Chlamydia trachomatis. Issue 2 (12th November 2008)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bialasiewicz, S; Whiley, D M; Buhrer-Skinner, M; Bautista, C; Barker, K; Aitken, S; Gordon, R; Muller, R; Lambert, S B; Debattista, J; Nissen, M D; Sloots, T P
• Is Part Of: Sexually transmitted infections. Volume 85:Issue 2(2009)
• Page Start: 102
• Page End: 105
• Publication Date: 2008-11-12
• Subjects: Sexually transmitted diseases -- Periodicals; HIV infections -- Periodicals; 616.951005
• DOI: 10.1136/sti.2008.032607
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1368-4973

Abstract

Abstract : Objectives: The aim of this study was to develop a novel urine transport method to be used in self-collection-based screening for Chlamydia trachomatis. The method needed to be suitable for C trachomatis PCR detection, be economical and suitable for transport by standard envelope mailing. Methods: An anhydrous gel composed of super-absorbent polymer and buffering agent was used to desiccate urine into a dry granulous state, which could subsequently be reconstituted upon arrival at a laboratory. DNA was then extracted from the reconstituted solution using the Roche MagNA Pure protocol for the detection of C trachomatis by PCR. Collections of urine specimens from three populations with widely differing chlamydia prevalence (100%, n = 56; 47%, n = 70; 3%, n = 97) were used. We determined the gel method's impact on C trachomatis PCR sensitivity and specificity using neat and gel-processed urine specimens. An equine herpes virus PCR was used to test for assay inhibition. Results: Overall, the sensitivity of the gel-based method ranged from 94.6–100% compared with neat urine, with a specificity of 100%. No PCR inhibition or decrease in analytical sensitivity was observed using the gel-processed extracts. Conclusions: The gel-based method was found to be suitable for the detection of C trachomatis by PCR. In addition, its ease of use, effectiveness at ambient temperature and low cost makes it well-suited for self-collection kits used in population-based C trachomatis screening, particularly for geographically and socially isolated individuals.