Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease that can easily go unnoticed, as its symptoms may be mild or mistaken for other conditions. Despite being a curable infection, syphilis can cause serious long-term health issues if left untreated. Regular syphilis test is essential for early diagnosis, timely treatment, and protecting both your health and that of your sexual partner/s.
Who Should Get A Syphilis Test?
While anyone can contract syphilis, certain individuals are at higher risk and should consider regular testing. You should get syphilis test if you:
- Are sexually active, especially if you’ve had unprotected sex.
- Have multiple sexual partners.
- Have been diagnosed with another STD, such as HIV or gonorrhea.
Types Of Syphilis Tests
Syphilis is usually diagnosed through blood tests, which are simple and typically painless. These tests look for specific antibodies produced by the immune system in response to the syphilis bacteria. Here are the two main types of blood tests used to detect syphilis:
1. Nontreponemal Tests
Nontreponemal tests, such as the Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) and the Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) test, are often used for initial screening. These tests detect antibodies that your body produces in response to the syphilis infection. While highly sensitive, they do not specifically identify syphilis, as other conditions, such as autoimmune diseases or recent vaccinations, can cause similar antibodies to form. Therefore, a positive result from a nontreponemal test requires a confirmatory test for a more accurate diagnosis.
2. Treponemal Tests
Treponemal tests, such as the Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody Absorption (FTA-ABS) or Treponema Pallidum Particle Agglutination (TPPA) test, are more specific. These tests detect antibodies that specifically target the Treponema pallidum bacteria, the causative agent of syphilis. Treponemal tests are usually done after a positive nontreponemal test to confirm the infection. Once someone tests positive with a treponemal test, it usually remains positive for life, even after the infection is treated.
Both tests require only a small sample of blood, usually drawn from a vein in your arm. The process takes just a few minutes, and while you may feel a slight sting when the needle is inserted, the procedure is generally quick and minimally uncomfortable.
In certain cases, such as when syphilis is suspected to affect the brain or nervous system, additional testing of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) may be necessary. This is done through a procedure called a lumbar puncture (spinal tap), where a small amount of CSF is collected from the lower spine for testing. This procedure is typically recommended when symptoms suggest syphilis may have advanced to neurosyphilis, a dangerous complication of the infection.
Early detection of syphilis is crucial to ensure timely treatment and to prevent the infection from advancing to more severe stages.
Why Regular Testing Is Crucial
Syphilis can remain asymptomatic for a long time, especially in its latent stage. Regular testing is vital for:
- Preventing transmission to sexual partners.
- Early diagnosis, which allows for more straightforward and effective treatment.
- Avoiding the severe complications associated with late-stage syphilis, such as neurological and cardiovascular damage.
Regular testing is particularly important if you belong to a high-risk group or have had a prior syphilis infection, as it is possible to be reinfected.
Where To Get Tested In Singapore
If you are concerned about your sexual health, it is essential to seek a trusted medical professional for syphilis testing.
Consult Our Preferred Doctor – Dr Kenneth Lee
Dr Kenneth Lee is the Medical Director of Dr Plus Aesthetics Clinic, and an aesthetic and men’s health doctor in Singapore. From sexually transmitted disease (STD) to erectile dysfunction, Dr Kenneth Lee is the doctor to look for.
STD Testing from Dr Kenneth Lee you can consider:
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This article is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.