Molecular Test Diagnoses Trichomonas vaginalis in Asymptomatic and Symptomatic Females

An amplified DNA assay for the direct qualitative detection of Trichomonas vaginalis DNA in endocervical and vaginal samples, as well as urine specimens, aids in the diagnosis of trichomoniasis.

The Becton, Dickenson and Co. (BD; Franklin Lakes, NJ, USA) Viper System with XTR technology provides a consistent, reliable performance. Fully automated specimen processing for all sample types provides maximum processing efficiency––up to 736 CT/GC results in an 8.5-hour shift. Ease-of-use and walkaway automation deliver efficient workflows, maximizing laboratory resources while producing reliable assay results.


The BD ProbeTec Trichomonas vaginalis Qx assay reduces human intervention and associated variables, and improves speed to results compared to wet mount microscopy and culture. The BD Viper System allows laboratories to test samples in panel mode for T. vaginalis, Chlamydia trachomatis, and Neisseria gonorrhea, or in batch mode for chlamydia and gonorrhea, trichomonas, and herpes on the same automated platform.

BD Diagnostics, a segment of Becton, Dickinson and Company, a global medical technology company, announced the US Food and Drug Administration's (FDA; Silver Spring, MD, USA) clearance and launch of the BD ProbeTec Trichomonas vaginalis Qx amplified DNA assay for the direct qualitative detection of T. vaginalis DNA in endocervical, vaginal, and urine samples, and in the diagnosis of trichomoniasis on the BD Viper System with XTR Technology. This assay has been CE-marked to the In Vitro Diagnostic Directive (98/79/EC).

Trichomoniasis is the most common curable sexually transmitted infection (STI). Worldwide, more than 180 million cases are estimated to occur annually. Genital inflammation caused by trichomoniasis can increase a woman’s susceptibility to HIV infection. In HIV-infected women, trichomoniasis may increase the likelihood of HIV transmission to sex partners. Furthermore, trichomoniasis is often asymptomatic. For these reasons, experts recommend screening for T. vaginalis in women considered to be at high risk for infection.

“The global prevalence of trichomoniasis is on the rise and there are more asymptomatic cases than previously thought,” said Chris Demiris, worldwide group marketing manager, BD Diagnostics, diagnostic systems, women’s health, and cancer. “The availability of an automated platform is especially important as clinical and public health communities embrace the need for a test that provides timely and accurate diagnosis of trichomoniasis when screening high-risk populations.”

Related Links:
Becton, Dickenson and Co.
US Food and Drug Administration