Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted disease which is known as the silent epidemic. Annually as many as 3 million cases of this condition are observed in United States. This condition is particularly prevalent among people belonging to the age group of 19 to 25. This condition can be diagnosed by detection of the Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria and Chlamydia test can be used for this detection.

Chlamydia test can be used to make a diagnosis and determine the cause of the symptoms. The test may also be used for screening of individuals who are sexually active. Screening can help in detecting the bacteria. These tests typically use the urine or the body fluid of a person to detect the Chlamydia bacteria. Fluid may also be taken from the affected area and in case of women this would include the cervix.

There are several tests that can be used for detection of the Chlamydia infection. Nucleic acid amplification test is one such Chlamydia test. In this test the genetic material or DNA of the Chlamydia bacteria is detected. This test is quite accurate. Polymerase chain reaction is one of the nucleic acid amplification tests and urine sample is ordinarily taken for this test.

Nucleic acid hybridization tests are known as probe tests and these can also be used to detect the Chlamydia DNA. The enzyme linked immunosorbent assay test or ELISA test is a common Chlamydia test. This test works by detecting substances that are responsible for triggering a fight from the immune system.

Another commonly used Chlamydia test includes the direct fluorescent antibody test. This is a test that can quickly help in detecting Chlamydia antigens. Chlamydia culture is a test wherein the Chlamydia bacteria is allowed to grow and this test tends to take longer and is also comparatively more expensive as compared to other tests.

A Chlamydia test is done particularly in those individuals who are at higher risk of getting this infection. Likewise if any person experiences symptoms associated with a sexually transmitted disease then this test may be undertaken to identify the infection. Women displaying possible signs of a pelvic inflammatory disease may also be required to undergo this test. Chlamydia test may be ordered if symptoms like vaginal or penile discharge along with abdominal pain are observed.