Why is this procedure done?
Syphilis is an infection you can catch during sex. This means it is a sexually-transmitted disease (STD). It is caused by a germ (bacteria). This test is done to find out if you have an active syphilis infection. ‚
The doctor may order a syphilis screening test when you: ‚
- Have signs that may be caused by syphilis, like a small, painless red bump. It may be seen in the genital area, on the lips, mouth, or anus. Then this turns into a small sore. You may also have pink or red rashes on your body that do not itch or a sore throat and swollen glands.
- Have some other sexually transmitted disease
- Are pregnant
- Have other infections
- Have unexplained anemia
- Have a sex partner who has tested positive for syphilis
- See how well your treatment is working
- Go along with other tests
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What will the results be?
- The doctor will look at the results of your test. The doctor may learn that you have signs of an illness that needs treatment.
- If the results are normal or negative, it means you likely do not have a syphilis infection at this time. You may need to have the test done again,
- If the results are not normal or positive, you may have a syphilis infection or were infected in the past. Your doctor will likely want to do another test to check this diagnosis.
- The doctor will talk with you about treatment. The doctor will also talk with you about protecting yourself and others from STDs.
What happens before the procedure?
- There are no special things to do before the test.
- Talk to your doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking
- If you have any bleeding problems
What happens during the procedure?
It will only take a few minutes to have this test. You will be awake the whole time. You will have a small amount of blood taken from you with a needle. You may have a small amount of pain. The needle will be taken out and a bandage will be put on your skin. The lab will test your blood. ‚
What happens after the procedure?
- You may want to sit quietly for a few minutes before standing up. This will help keep you from feeling dizzy after the test. Tell the lab if you feel faint or weak before standing.
- Put pressure with your other hand where the needle was. This will help with bruising and bleeding.
- Ask your doctor when you will get the results.
What care is needed at home?
You may do your everyday activities when you get back home. ‚
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. This test will help your doctor understand if you have a problem with syphilis. Together you can make a plan for more care. ‚
What problems could happen?
- Pain
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Feeling dizzy
- Infection
Where can I learn more?
American Association for Clinical Chemistry ‚
http://labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/syphilis/tab/test ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚