G01N2333/186

Sexually Transmitted Infection Testing from Human Dried Blood Spots Collected Remotely

System and method for remote self-collection of a blood sample for assessment at a lab to detect presence of specific sexually transmitted infections (STIs). An at-home collection kit may include an ability to detect chlamydia (CT), gonorrhea (GC), bacterial vaginosis (BV), candida vaginitis (CV) and Trichomonas vaginalis (TV), HSV-2, syphilis, HIV, HBsAg, an HCV. The screening of samples for the presence of antigens and/or antibodies to infectious agents is a primary laboratory tool for the diagnosis of infections of the above viruses and bacterium. Distributing a specimen collection kit containing dried blood spot (DBS) cards can eliminate the hurdles of visiting clinics or hospitals and reduce stigma. DBS samples collected on filter paper, such as GE Whatman 903 protein saver cards, offer several advantages over on-site phlebotomist collection. The DBS cards and collection devices are especially useful for individuals who live in remote areas where healthcare resources may be limited.