Update in the Molecular Diagnostics of Sexually Transmitted Infections

In this article, we review the use of nucleic acid amplification testing as it specifically applies to diagnosing the following sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, Mycoplasma genitalium, and Trichomonas vaginalis. The use of molecular testing for nonulcerative STI has led to decreased time to diagnosis, improved sensitivity and specificity of previous testing methods, and more rapid treatment by clinicians. Clinicians need to be aware of the most recent updates in testing methods as well as the limits of the laboratory used for testing.