From the NIH: Proceedings of a workshop on the importance of self-obtained vaginal specimens for detection of sexually transmitted infections

Marcia M. Hobbs, Barbara Van Der Pol, Patricia Totten, Charlotte A. Gaydos, Anna Wald, Terri Warren, Rachel L. Winer, Robert L. Cook, Carolyn D. Deal, M. Elizabeth Rogers, Julius Schachter, King K. Holmes, David H. Martin

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

74 Scopus citations

Abstract

On June 27, 2006, the NIH conducted a workshop to review published data and current field practices supporting the use of self-obtained vaginal swabs (SOVs) as specimens for diagnosis of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The workshop also explored the design of studies that could support FDA clearance of SOVs for STI testing, particularly for specimens collected in nonclinical settings including patients' homes. This report summarizes the workshop findings and recommendations. Participants concluded that self-obtained vaginal swabs are well accepted by women of all ages and that SOVs perform as well as or better than other specimen types for Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae detection using transcription-mediated amplification. In addition, workshop participants recommended the validation of SOV testing by public health practitioners and manufacturers of STI diagnostic tests to expedite incorporation of SOVs as a diagnostic option in clinical and nonclinical settings for Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae testing. Similarly, SOVs should be explored for use in the diagnosis of other sexually transmitted pathogens.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)8-13
Number of pages6
JournalSexually transmitted diseases
Volume35
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 2008

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Dermatology
  • Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health
  • Microbiology (medical)
  • Infectious Diseases

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