Diagnostics procedure (gonorrhea)

Nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) assay

is the test of choice to evaluate for urogenital infections in both males and females, whether
symptomatic or asymptomatic.
One benefit of NAAT assay is that it does not require live organisms yet can yield a positive
result with minimal genetic material available, using specimens such as first catch urine and
vaginal swabs. Sensitivity for detection exceeds 90%, and specificity is 99% or higher.
Complete blood count
Patients with gonococcemia may have an elevated white blood cell (WBC) count, in the range of
10,000-15,000/µL.
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate
The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is usually mildly elevated, with values from 20-50 in
most patients. Less than 50% of patients have an ESR of higher than 50.

Serologic tests
These tests include latex agglutination, ELISA, immunoprecipitation, and complement fixation
tests. Because of their lower sensitivity and specificity, especially in populations with a low
prevalence of disease, these tests are not routinely used for diagnosis, but they can be used as
adjuncts to the other laboratory tests and may help in making the diagnosis.

Echocardiography
Because of the potential severity of pericarditis and endocarditis, a cardiologic examination,
including echocardiography, is recommended, even though these conditions are rare.
Suspected disseminated gonococcal infection