Skip to main content

Performance of the APTIMA assay

The accuracy of the Gen-Probe APTIMA system in published studies is in the range of 98–100%, but we performed our own validation of the APTIMA system to insure good performance for testing of BC patients. Cooperating clinics collected dual Gen-Probe APTIMA and BD ProbeTec swabs that were tested in parallel on the two systems. We also tested urine specimens on the two systems. Discrepancies were resolved by repeat testing on both systems and by testing using alternative DNA amplification methods. 1534 specimens were tested by both methods for Chlamydia and gonorrhea. A total of 269 specimens were positive for one or both organisms, and the APTIMA system demonstrated >99% sensitivity and specificity overall for both swab and urine specimens compared to the BD ProbeTec system. The results by specimen type are shown above. Based on this excellent performance, the Gen-Probe APTIMA system was chosen for implementation.

Learn more details



For rush results (NAAT within 12 hours and PCR within 24 hours)

  1. Order your FlyClear test and receive your FlyClear test requisition
  2. Book an appointment at a LifeLabs location below.
    • Bring your printed FlyClear requisition and Passport
    • Select your ordered Province’s Rush Test to start booking:
    British Columbia

    6084 Russ Baker Way
    Richmond near Airport

    COVID-19 PCR (24h) / Rush 12h NAAT

    Ontario

    6084 Russ Baker Way
    Richmond near Airport

    COVID-19 PCR (24h)
    Rush 12h NAAT
    Rapid Antigen (2h)

Pre-Departure testing now available from the comfort of your home with MyVisit (Currently Greater Toronto Area only)

  1. Order your FlyClear test and receive your FlyClear test requisition.
  2. Book your Home Visit appointment with the MyVisit portal or, if your flight is within the next five days, contact a MyVisit coordinator 1-416-993-9579 (Monday – Friday, 9am-5pm EST)

MyVisit Pre-departure testing offers:

  • COVID-19 PCR/NAAT swab testing
  • COVID-19 Antibody Blood (serology) testing

The MyVisit fee is $80 per person.

Pre-Departure testing

Book your appointment online here. If your flight is within the next five days and you have received your FlyClear requisition, please contact a MyVisit coordinator 1-416-993-9579 (Monday – Friday, 9am-5pm EST).