Overview
This course develops practical and analytical competence in selecting, performing, and interpreting diagnostic tests for sexually transmitted infections. Students examine patient and specimen assessment, collection and transport across genital and extragenital sites, and the principles and limitations of microscopy, antigen detection, nucleic acid amplification, serology, culture, and confirmatory testing.
The course addresses diagnostic accuracy, test timing and window periods, specimen quality, contamination, and quality control. It also examines antimicrobial resistance mechanisms, susceptibility testing, breakpoint interpretation, molecular resistance markers, treatment guidance, and antimicrobial stewardship. Syndrome-based cases emphasize evidence-based test selection and clear communication of diagnostic findings.
Learning Outcomes
- Select appropriate diagnostic tests and specimen sites for common STI syndromes.
- Collect, label, process, and transport clinical specimens in accordance with safety and quality requirements.
- Interpret positive, negative, equivocal, and unexpected results in light of test performance, exposure timing, and specimen quality.
- Distinguish pathogen detection from evidence of active disease and assess the limitations of diagnostic results.
- Apply antimicrobial susceptibility results and resistance data to evidence-based treatment decisions.
- Recognize contamination, procedural errors, and quality-control failures that may affect diagnostic accuracy.
- Communicate diagnostic and antimicrobial resistance findings clearly to patients and clinical colleagues.
Timetable
| Type | Length | Frequency | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 2 hours | Weekly | All semester |
| Lab | 2 hours | Weekly | All semester |
| Tutorial | 1 hour | Weekly | All semester |
Assessment Schedule
| Type | Description | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Assignment | Case-based diagnostic test selection and result interpretation. | 25.00% |
| Test | Practical assessment of specimen handling and diagnostic procedures. | 20.00% |
| Assignment | Antimicrobial susceptibility and resistance analysis. | 20.00% |
| Exam | Final examination covering diagnostic methods, interpretation, and stewardship. | 35.00% |
Prerequisites
Teaching Staff & Programs
This course is delivered jointly by faculty from the participating programs listed below. In line with the Douchewater Way, the University of Sexology tailors core instruction directly to each cohort's specific discipline — adapting curriculum to program needs rather than forcing students into a one-size-fits-all model. Learn more about our approach at The Douchewater Way.
