Hologic has added the CE-marked Aptima Mycoplasma genitalium assay to the growing menu of molecular tests available on the fully automated Panther system.
M. genitalium was originally isolated in 1980. Since then, many studies have explored the prevalence of the infection, which can be present in up to 6% of men and women visiting STD clinics. It is associated with urethritis in men and women, and with cervicitis and pelvic inflammatory disease in women. Data also support a correlation between M. genitalium infection and increased HIV-1 infection and transmission.
Accurate identification of M. genitalium is essential for successful treatment, as the infection can become resistant to antibiotics used to treat similar STIs. The Aptima Mycoplasma genitalium assay on the Panther system allows healthcare providers to diagnose and more effectively treat this STI.