- Direct examination of cervical or urethral specimens by direct fluorescent antibody test
- Very time consuming to read but demonstrates good specimens because epithelial cells can be seen
- Not as sensitive as molecular methods
- Not performed in high volume labs
- Enzyme immunoassay or optical immunoassay can be performed on cervical or urethral specimens
- Can be used in outpatient settings but also not as sensitive as molecular methods
- McCoy cell culture is the “gold standard” and should be used in child or sexual abuse cases
- Positives are stained with DFA staining or iodine to see the inclusions
- Cell culture capability required, complex, and time consuming
McCoy cell culture with iodine stained chlamydial inclusions
PHIL CDC
