Evaluation of the Gen-Probe PACE 2 Assay for the Detection of Asymptomatic Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae Infections in Male Arrestees

Background: The LET and Gen-Probe PACE 2 assay are used to screen male arrestees for evidence of infection with chlamydia and gonorrhea in the intake/booking area of the Jefferson Parish Correctional Center. Goal of this Study: To determine the accuracy of the GenProbe PACE 2 assay for the detection of asymptomatic infection with Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae infections in male arrestees. Study Design: From December 1993 to March 1994, 196 arrestees younger than 22 years were screened with the GenProbe PACE 2 assay and McCoy shell vial culture for Chlamydia trachomatis. From April to October 1994, 444 arrestees of all ages were screened with the Gen-Probe PACE 2 assay and standard culture for Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values of the Gen-Probe PACE 2 assay, compared with culture, were calculated with 95% confidence intervals. Results: The Gen-Probe PACE 2 assay compared with culture had a sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value for Chlamydia trachomatis of 84%, 99%, and 93% and for Neisseria gonorrhoeae of 54%, 99.5%, and 78%. Conclusion: The Gen-Probe PACE 2 assay is useful for screening young males in this jail setting and is more accurate for detecting Chlamydia trachomatis compared with Neisseria gonorrhoeae.