{"id":5011,"date":"2025-09-11T13:27:32","date_gmt":"2025-09-11T06:27:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/?p=5011"},"modified":"2025-12-24T11:07:40","modified_gmt":"2025-12-24T04:07:40","slug":"syphilis-testing-current-methods-pros-cons-and-what-you-need-to-know","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/en\/syphilis-testing-current-methods-pros-cons-and-what-you-need-to-know\/","title":{"rendered":"Syphilis Testing: Current Methods, Pros &#038; Cons, and What You Need to Know"},"content":{"rendered":"<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"2\">Syphilis is one of the common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that can progress silently but leave serious consequences if not detected and treated promptly. Regular syphilis testing helps with early diagnosis, protecting your health and that of your partner. This article will help you understand the current syphilis testing methods, the pros and cons of each type, and important notes when undergoing the test.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_75 ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">N\u1ed9i dung trang<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/en\/syphilis-testing-current-methods-pros-cons-and-what-you-need-to-know\/#1_What_is_Syphilis\" >1. What is Syphilis?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/en\/syphilis-testing-current-methods-pros-cons-and-what-you-need-to-know\/#2_Why_should_you_get_tested_for_Syphilis\" >2. Why should you get tested for Syphilis?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/en\/syphilis-testing-current-methods-pros-cons-and-what-you-need-to-know\/#21_Indirect_Tests_Syphilis_Serology\" >2.1. Indirect Tests (Syphilis Serology)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/en\/syphilis-testing-current-methods-pros-cons-and-what-you-need-to-know\/#211_Non-treponemal_Tests_RPR_VDRL\" >2.1.1. Non-treponemal Tests: RPR, VDRL<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/en\/syphilis-testing-current-methods-pros-cons-and-what-you-need-to-know\/#212_Treponemal_Tests_TPHA_TPPA_FTA-ABS_EIA\" >2.1.2. Treponemal Tests: TPHA, TPPA, FTA-ABS, EIA<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/en\/syphilis-testing-current-methods-pros-cons-and-what-you-need-to-know\/#22_Direct_Tests_Finding_the_Bacteria\" >2.2. Direct Tests (Finding the Bacteria)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/en\/syphilis-testing-current-methods-pros-cons-and-what-you-need-to-know\/#221_Darkfield_Microscopy\" >2.2.1. Darkfield Microscopy\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/en\/syphilis-testing-current-methods-pros-cons-and-what-you-need-to-know\/#222_Direct_Fluorescent_Antibody_Test_DFA\" >2.2.2. Direct Fluorescent Antibody Test (DFA)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/en\/syphilis-testing-current-methods-pros-cons-and-what-you-need-to-know\/#223_Nucleic_Acid_Amplification_Tests_NAATs\" >2.2.3. Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests (NAATs)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/en\/syphilis-testing-current-methods-pros-cons-and-what-you-need-to-know\/#23_Syphilis_Rapid_Diagnostic_Tests_RDTs\" >2.3. Syphilis Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/en\/syphilis-testing-current-methods-pros-cons-and-what-you-need-to-know\/#3_So_which_test_should_we_choose\" >3. So which test should we choose?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/en\/syphilis-testing-current-methods-pros-cons-and-what-you-need-to-know\/#4_Conclusion\" >4. Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_What_is_Syphilis\"><\/span><strong>1. <span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"3\">What is Syphilis?<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_3969\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-3969\" style=\"width: 300px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-3969 size-medium\" src=\"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/xoan-khuan-giang-mai-300x169.jpg\" alt=\"Xo\u1eafn khu\u1ea9n giang mai\" width=\"300\" height=\"169\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/xoan-khuan-giang-mai-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/xoan-khuan-giang-mai-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/xoan-khuan-giang-mai-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/xoan-khuan-giang-mai-600x338.jpg 600w, https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/xoan-khuan-giang-mai.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-3969\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>H\u00ecnh \u1ea3nh xo\u1eafn khu\u1ea9n giang mai, nguy\u00ean nh\u00e2n g\u00e2y ra b\u1ec7nh x\u00e3 h\u1ed9i nhi\u1ec1u top 5<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"4\">Syphilis is an infection caused by the spirochete bacterium\u00a0<\/span><i><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"5\">Treponema pallidum<\/span><\/i><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"6\">, primarily transmitted through unsafe sexual contact (vaginal, anal, oral). In addition, the disease can also spread from mother to child during pregnancy or through contact with infected blood. The disease progresses through various stages. Due to its silent progression, many people do not know they have the disease until severe complications occur.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Why_should_you_get_tested_for_Syphilis\"><\/span><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"7\">2. Why should you get tested for Syphilis?<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"8\">Syphilis testing helps:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstList\">\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"9\">Detect the disease early, even without external symptoms.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"10\">Prevent transmission to your partner and fetus.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"11\">Monitor the effectiveness of treatment and prevent recurrence.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"12\">Detect co-infection with other sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV, Hepatitis B, C, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, etc.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"13\">Who should get tested for Syphilis?<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstList\">\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"14\">People with multiple sexual partners or who have unprotected sex (do not use condoms).<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"15\">People belonging to the LGBTQ+ community, especially men who have sex with men (MSM).<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"16\">Pregnant women.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"17\">People who have had contact with someone who has syphilis.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"18\">People with suspicious symptoms such as genital sores, rash, abnormal hair loss, swollen lymph nodes, etc.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"19\">Currently, syphilis testing includes two main groups:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"21_Indirect_Tests_Syphilis_Serology\"><\/span><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"20\">2.1. Indirect Tests (Syphilis Serology)<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"21\">This is the most common method, using a blood sample to detect antibodies that the body produces to fight the syphilis spirochete. There are 2 types of serological tests for syphilis diagnosis: non-treponemal and treponemal. The primary specimen is serum. Some non-treponemal tests can use plasma. Additionally, cerebrospinal fluid specimens are used to diagnose congenital syphilis, Stage III syphilis, and when neurological symptoms are present.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"211_Non-treponemal_Tests_RPR_VDRL\"><\/span><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"22\">2.1.1. Non-treponemal Tests: RPR, VDRL<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstList\">\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"23\">Principle:<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"24\">\u00a0Detects non-specific IgM or IgG antibodies against lipids.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"25\">Pros:<\/span><\/strong>\n<ul class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstList\">\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"26\">Easy to perform, low cost.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"27\">Used in combination with treponemal tests to diagnose syphilis.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"28\">Can be quantitative \u2013 used to monitor treatment effectiveness (reduction in antibody titer after treatment).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"29\">Cons:<\/span><\/strong>\n<ul class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstList\">\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"30\">May yield false-negative results within the first 4 weeks after the appearance of the primary lesion (syphilitic chancre) and in late syphilis.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"31\">May yield false-positive results due to viral fever diseases, autoimmune diseases, etc.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"32\">Not specific to\u00a0<\/span><i><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"33\">Treponema pallidum<\/span><\/i><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"34\">\u00a0\u2013 requires an additional treponemal test for confirmation.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"212_Treponemal_Tests_TPHA_TPPA_FTA-ABS_EIA\"><\/span><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"35\">2.1.2. Treponemal Tests: TPHA, TPPA, FTA-ABS, EIA<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstList\">\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"36\">Principle:<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"37\">\u00a0Detects specific antibodies that only appear upon infection with\u00a0<\/span><i><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"38\">Treponema pallidum<\/span><\/i><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"39\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"40\">Pros:<\/span><\/strong>\n<ul class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstList\">\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"41\">High accuracy, fewer false-positive results (high specificity).<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"42\">Indicated after a positive non-treponemal test result for diagnostic confirmation or vice versa.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"43\">Cons:<\/span><\/strong>\n<ul class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstList\">\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"44\">Remains positive for life, even after being cured (85%) \u2192 cannot distinguish between an active disease period and a successfully treated case, and is not used for post-treatment monitoring.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"45\">Higher cost, not used alone for post-treatment monitoring.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"46\">Cannot differentiate the antigen in syphilis from diseases caused by other spirochetes (e.g., yaws).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"47\">In practice, a combination of both test groups is often used: a screening test (usually RPR or EIA) and a confirmatory test (TPPA, TPHA, etc.).<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"22_Direct_Tests_Finding_the_Bacteria\"><\/span><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"48\">2.2. Direct Tests (Finding the Bacteria)<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"49\">Used in the stage where lesions are present (such as a syphilitic chancre) to confirm the direct presence of the spirochete.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"221_Darkfield_Microscopy\"><\/span><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"50\">2.2.1. Darkfield Microscopy\u00a0<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstList\">\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"51\">Principle:<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"52\">\u00a0Direct observation of spirochetes from the clinical specimen (secretion suspected on the skin, mucous membrane, lymph node, etc.). Direct examination will show the syphilis spirochete as a mobile, spring-like shape.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"53\">Pros:<\/span><\/strong>\n<ul class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstList\">\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"54\">The most specific method for diagnosing syphilis in the early stage.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"55\">High specificity but low sensitivity (\uff1c50%), so not finding the syphilis spirochete does not rule out syphilis.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"56\">Can provide quick results.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"57\">Cons:<\/span><\/strong>\n<ul class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstList\">\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"58\">Only applicable when suspicious lesions are present.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"59\">Must be performed immediately after the specimen is collected.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"60\">The test requires specialized equipment and trained, experienced technicians, thus usually only performed in specialized laboratories.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"222_Direct_Fluorescent_Antibody_Test_DFA\"><\/span><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"61\">2.2.2. Direct Fluorescent Antibody Test (DFA)<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstList\">\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"62\">Principle:<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"63\">\u00a0Uses a fluorescent microscope to detect spirochetes stained with fluorescently tagged\u00a0<\/span><i><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"64\">T. pallidum<\/span><\/i><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"65\">\u00a0anti-globulin antibodies.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"66\">Pros:<\/span><\/strong>\n<ul class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstList\">\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"67\">Easier to detect, not confused with other microorganisms because the spirochetes are stained with fluorescently tagged antibodies.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"68\">The DFA test has higher sensitivity and specificity than darkfield microscopy.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"69\">Cons:<\/span><\/strong>\n<ul class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstList\">\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"70\">The test requires specialized equipment and fluorescent reagents, thus its applicability is not high.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"223_Nucleic_Acid_Amplification_Tests_NAATs\"><\/span><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"71\">2.2.3. Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests (NAATs)<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstList\">\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"72\">Principle:<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"73\">\u00a0Direct test to detect\u00a0<\/span><i><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"74\">T. pallidum<\/span><\/i><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"75\">\u00a0DNA using a nucleic acid amplification reaction (also called gene amplification testing, including PCR testing).<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"76\">Pros:<\/span><\/strong>\n<ul class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstList\">\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"77\">Very high accuracy (high sensitivity and specificity).<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"78\">Superior to direct microscopy as it detects even a very small amount of bacterial DNA.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"79\">Yields positive results earlier than serological tests (early stage), as it detects the infection before the body produces antibodies.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"80\">Can be performed on many different types of specimens such as secretion from ulcerated skin lesions, mucous membranes, blood, or cerebrospinal fluid (neurosyphilis).<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"81\">Not affected by diseases causing false serological positives, such as viral or autoimmune diseases.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"82\">Cons:<\/span><\/strong>\n<ul class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstList\">\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"83\">High cost, not available in many medical facilities.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"84\">Requires specialized equipment and skilled technicians.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"23_Syphilis_Rapid_Diagnostic_Tests_RDTs\"><\/span><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"85\">2.3. Syphilis Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs)<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"86\">Syphilis rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) have been developing strongly over the past few decades. There are quick test kits for syphilis alone and quick test kits for both syphilis and HIV simultaneously. Currently, syphilis RDTs are widely used for screening in the community, especially for high-risk groups (sex workers, men who have sex with men MSM, LGBTQ+, etc.) and in HIV\/AIDS prevention programs.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstList\">\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"87\">Principle:<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"88\">\u00a0Detects specific antibodies against the syphilis spirochete present in the patient&#8217;s blood.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"89\">Pros:<\/span><\/strong>\n<ul class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstList\">\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"90\">Quick, only takes 10\u201315 minutes.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"91\">Simple, only requires a drop of blood from the fingertip.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"92\">Does not require specialized storage equipment or complex testing tools.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"93\">Suitable for screening and wide-area surveillance.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"94\">Can be performed on-site, over a wide area, and at different levels of healthcare as well as in the community.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"95\">Can be self-administered with full procedural instructions.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"96\">Cons:<\/span><\/strong>\n<ul class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstList\">\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"97\">Does not distinguish between a new infection and an infection in the past.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"98\">Remains positive even in cases that have been cured but still have antibodies.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"99\">Is only qualitative, thus not used for treatment monitoring.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"100\">If tested too early, may be false-negative due to insufficient antibody production.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_So_which_test_should_we_choose\"><\/span><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"101\">3. So which test should we choose?<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"102\">The choice of an appropriate syphilis testing method depends on:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstList\">\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"103\">Disease Stage:<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"104\">\u00a0Early or late stage, with or without lesions? Symptomatic or asymptomatic?<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"105\">Purpose of Testing:<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"106\">\u00a0Screening, surveillance in asymptomatic individuals. Initial diagnosis in symptomatic individuals (with lesions), or for treatment monitoring.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"107\">Medical Conditions:<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"108\">\u00a0Competent, specialized medical facility, or large hospitals. Rural or grassroots level.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"109\">Medical Cost and Availability:<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"110\">\u00a0Especially rapid tests can provide quick results, are readily available, can be self-administered at home with low cost and are easy to perform with full instructions.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"111\">Some notes when getting tested for syphilis:<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstList\">\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"112\">Do not self-diagnose based on skin manifestations, as syphilis can resemble many other conditions.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"113\">After exposure to a risk factor (unprotected sex), you should wait at least 3\u20134 weeks for accurate testing, as the body needs time to produce antibodies.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"114\">Repeat testing may be needed after 1\u20133 months if the risk is high or symptoms are unclear.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"115\">Always combine medical consultation and co-testing for other STIs if risk factors are present.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"116\">People with a partner who tests positive for syphilis should be tested and treated simultaneously, even without symptoms.<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"117\">Always discuss and share with healthcare personnel to have all questions and concerns answered and to be guided on full testing and treatment.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Conclusion\"><\/span><strong><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"118\">4. Conclusion<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span class=\"appsElementsGenerativeaiAstAnimated\" data-ast-node-id=\"119\">Syphilis is a disease that can be completely cured if detected early. However, if missed or treated late, the disease can leave severe complications, affecting reproductive health, the nervous system, the cardiovascular system, and the quality of life. Correct understanding of syphilis testing methods, choosing a reputable medical facility, and proactively undergoing regular screening are ways to protect your safety and that of your loved ones.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This article is written by <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/doi-ngu\/ths-bs-andy-nguyen\/\">BS. CKI. V\u00f5 Nguy\u1ec5n Duy Ho\u00e0<\/a><\/strong>, a specialist in General Surgery, Urology, and Andrology. The doctor has many years of experience in the field of reproductive and sexual health.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><em><strong>Reference<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> WHO, Guidelines for the Treatment of Treponema pallidum (syphilis), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.who.int\/publications\/i\/item\/who-guidelines-for-the-treatment-of-treponema-pallidum-(syphilis)\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.who.int\/publications\/i\/item\/who-guidelines-for-the-treatment-of-treponema-pallidum-(syphilis)<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"text-align: justify;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/thuvienphapluat.vn\/van-ban\/The-thao-Y-te\/Quyet-dinh-5186-QD-BYT-2021-chan-doan-va-dieu-tri-benh-Giang-mai-493851.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> H\u01af\u1edaNG D\u1eaaN CH\u1ea8N \u0110O\u00c1N V\u00c0 \u0110I\u1ec0U TR\u1eca B\u1ec6NH GIANG MAI <\/span><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(Ban h\u00e0nh k\u00e8m theo Quy\u1ebft \u0111\u1ecbnh s\u1ed1: 5186\/Q\u0110-BYT ng\u00e0y 09 th\u00e1ng 11 n\u0103m 2021 c\u1ee7a B\u1ed9 tr\u01b0\u1edfng B\u1ed9 Y t\u1ebf)<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Syphilis is one of the common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that can progress silently but leave serious consequences if not detected and treated promptly. Regular syphilis testing helps with early diagnosis, protecting your health and that of your partner. This article will help you understand the current syphilis testing methods, the pros and cons of [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":49,"featured_media":4153,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[139],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-5011","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-health-bulletin"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5011","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/49"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5011"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5011\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5357,"href":"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5011\/revisions\/5357"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4153"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5011"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5011"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gdhealth.vn\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5011"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}