What is Culture for GC?
A Gonorrhea Culture Test is a test conducted in the laboratory to determine the presence of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the bacteria that causes gonorrhea. Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted disease that can affect other parts of the body including the genital area, anus, mouth, and eyes. It is one of the most prevalent STIs in the world and can have severe consequences if not treated including infertility.
The Gonorrhea Culture Test is the most accurate method of diagnosing this infection. It is used to confirm the presence of the bacteria N. gonorrhoeae through the culture of the organism in a laboratory. This test is quite useful in cases where other tests like urine or DNA tests have given ambiguous or inconclusive results.
How is the Test Performed?
The Culture for GC test is a straightforward test involving the collection of the sample from the site of infection;
Preparation
- Generally, fasting is not required although your doctor may prescribe you to fast based on your health condition.
- Always inform your doctor about any medication you are taking to evaluate the results based on that.
Collection
- The culture method requires swabbing the affected area, for example, the cervix, urethra, throat, or rectum based on the symptoms and risk factors of the patient
Lab Analysis
- The sample is sent to the laboratory for the analysis of Culture for GC by placing it in the culture media.
- The growth is then examined by an expert technician.
What are the symptoms that prompt this test?
A Gonorrhea Culture Test may be suggested if you or your doctor notice symptoms that are suggestive of a gonorrheal infection. Symptoms that may warrant this test include:
Symptoms in Women
- Vaginal discharge of unusual color and odor
- Urinating with pain
- Pain in the pelvis during intercourse
- Menstrual bleeding irregularly
- Genital area appears to be red or swollen
- Swallowing difficulty
Symptoms in Men
- Unusual discharge from the penis
- Swelling of the testicles
- Testicular pain
- Difficulty in swallowing
Furthermore, people with multiple sexual partners or those who have unprotected sex are more likely to get gonorrhea and may be told to go for testing even if they have no symptoms.
What are Normal Ranges for This Test?
The GC culture does not deliver the results in any specific normal ranges rather it is given as positive or negative indicating;
Positive – Microbial growth of Neisseria gonorrhoeae presence
Negative – No microbial growth
**A negative result does not eliminate the possibility of infection rather further testing is required.**
What Happens if Test Results Show Abnormal Levels?
If the Gonorrhea Culture Test is positive, it means that you have gonorrhea and you need treatment. The usual procedures that follow include:
- Treatment with antibiotics, in case of the resistant strains different courses of medications are suggested.
- Presence of the Neisseria gonorrhoeae indicates that the person has an active infection. Further testing is required to detect for antibiotic sensitivity.
- If you are diagnosed with the infection it is important to get your partner tested as well.
- It is essential to abstain from sexual activity, regular monitoring and follow-up is essential for the management of the infection.
