SYFLIS: TESTING RESULTS

If a person tests positive, then standard practice calls for a second test to be performed to determine whether or not he or she is really infected with syphilis. This second test, called the treponemal antibody test or fluorescent treponemal antibody absorbed test (FTA-ABS), is very specific for syphilis and is intended to detect different antibodies than the tests described earlier. This test occasionally also shows up positive in a person who is not infected with syphilis, but this result is rare. Once a person has a positive FTA-ABS test from infection with syphilis, this test rarely reverts back to normal, even after successful treatment; it is therefore not a good test for monitoring whether or not treatment has been successful.

These tests can also be performed on body fluids other than blood, such as fluid from the spinal canal to determine whether the infection is affecting the neurological system (neurosyphilis).

These tests can also be performed on body fluids other than blood, such as fluid from the spinal canal to determine whether the infection is affecting the neurological system (neurosyphilis).

If all the tests for syphilis are negative and the disease is still suspected, a blood test is usually repeated at about three months from the suspected date of infection; as already noted, it may take up to three months after infection to show a positive blood test.

All partners within the last three months (or possibly within the last year, for those with later stages of the disease) of persons infected with syphilis should be screened. Those who have had sexual contact with a person who is thought to be infectious are usually treated despite negative test results. Anyone diagnosed with syphilis is usually evaluated for other sexually transmitted infections, since the likelihood of infection with other STDs is high. Infants with syphilis are tested in the same ways in which adults are. Syphilis is reportable to the health department in most states, and there are anonymous partner-notification programs, so that persons who may have been infected can be called in for treatment.

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