Mycoplasma genitalium, herpes and Trichomonas vaginalis may not attract as much attention as other STIs, but they are important. And new viruses, such as mpox, continue to emerge.
Mycoplasma genitalium, identified 40 years ago and linked to infertility, is treatable but is becoming difficult to treat due to increasing drug resistance. Trichomoniasis, known for often not having symptoms, can be easily cured. Genital herpes, caused by herpes simplex virus, is different from many other STIs, as it can be spread by skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity. Unfortunately, no cure for herpes exists, but treatment can help alleviate symptoms and prevent outbreaks.16
Roche has developed real-time PCR tests to detect these microorganisms and assist in patient diagnosis. T. vaginalis and M. genitalium can be detected from the same specimen used for chlamydia and gonorrhea testing.