Neisseria gonorrhoeae by Transcription-Mediated Amplification (TMA)
Also known as: GCAMD
Use
This qualitative Transcription‑Mediated Amplification (TMA) assay is the preferred test for detection of Neisseria gonorrhoeae across a variety of specimen sources. It is intended for medical diagnostic use, not for evaluation of suspected sexual abuse or forensic purposes. Per CDC 2014 recommendations, this test does not include confirmation of positive results using an alternative nucleic acid target. Patients age 14 and older are eligible for ThinPrep specimens, and specimen source must be provided. Reference intervals are qualitative (e.g., negative).
Special Instructions
Change effective as of January 5, 2026: refer to test 3020543 in the January Immediate Change Hotline. Specimen collection options include swabs (vaginal, throat, eye, rectal using pink Multitest swab; cervical, eye, male urethral using blue Unisex swab), first‑catch urine, and ThinPrep Pap specimens. Instructions: Swab placed in transport tube, shaft broken at scoreline; urine: 2 mL transferred within 24 hours to Aptima Urine Specimen Transport Tube; ThinPrep: 1 mL transferred to Aptima transfer tube with vortexing and poured prior to cytology. Referral to “Sample Collection for the Diagnosis of STD” on ARUP site for detailed handling.
Limitations
Not valid for forensic or sexual abuse evaluation. TMA positive results are not confirmed by an alternate nucleic acid target unless reflex is ordered (e.g., CT/NG with reflex confirmation). Reliability depends on proper specimen source and handling; unacceptable conditions include improper swab types or transport media. Specific limitations beyond these are not stated.
New York Approved
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 31208-2
- 43305-2
- 74384-9
Result Turnaround Time
1-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Tissue
Volume
Not provided
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
ThinPrep PreservCyt solution; Aptima Specimen Transfer Tube
Collection Instructions
Vortex ThinPrep PreservCyt solution and transfer 1 mL to an Aptima Specimen Transfer Tube; poured off into transfer tube prior to cytology.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1 month |
| Refrigerated | 1 month |
| Frozen | Unacceptable |