Mycoplasma genitalium is a newly described but well established STI pathogen with clinical manifestations similar to those caused by Chlamydia trachomatis. In males it causes acute and persistent urethritis. In females it is usually asymptomatic but may cause cervicitis and/or PID. It is also associated with infertility and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
On all genital STI samples, Island Health uses a molecular STI Pathogen Panel that tests for Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoea and Trichomonas vaginalis. A new molecular assay that tests for Mycoplasma genitalium will be performed when specifically requested.
We recommend testing for Mycoplasma genitalium in:
Preferred testing specimen varies by syndrome. Please ensure the correct STI swab is submitted to avoid rejection:
All contacts within the last 60 days, regardless of symptoms or signs, should be treated, preferably after a sample is obtained for testing. If testing is impossible, treatment is still recommended for all contacts.
Please submit all samples to an Island Health laboratory and not LifeLabs as Island Health performs the testing in-house. Please state "M. genitalium contact follow-up" on the requisition.
Test of cure should be performed in 3-4 weeks under some circumstances.
Test of cure should be performed 3-4 weeks post-treatment. If still positive, treat with:
Test of cure should be performed 3-4 weeks post-treatment. If still positive, treat with:
Test of cure should be performed 3-4 weeks post-treatment, then testing for reinfection should be performed in 3 months.
Patients who have failed azithromycin and have contraindications to moxifloxacin or have failed moxifloxacin should be referred to an STI specialist.