How does a syphilis test work?
A syphilis test is a diagnostic method to detect antibodies against Treponema pallidum, the bacterium that causes syphilis. The test can be performed in a laboratory or with a self-test for home use.
How does a syphilis test work?
A syphilis test works by checking for the presence of antibodies in the blood. When the body is exposed to the syphilis bacteria, the immune system produces antibodies. These are usually detectable in the blood after three to four weeks.
A blood test in a laboratory involves drawing blood and analysing it for specific syphilis antibodies. This is often done using serological tests such as the Treponema pallidum haemagglutination test (TPHA) or the Rapid Plasma Reagin test (RPR).
In a self-test for syphilis, you prick a small drop of blood from your fingertip and apply it to a test cassette. The test contains a reagent that reacts to syphilis antibodies. Within 10 to 15 minutes, the result appears.
How do you perform a syphilis self-test?
A syphilis self-test is easy and quick to perform. Follow these steps carefully:
- Preparation – Open the test kit and prepare all materials on a clean, dry surface.
- Blood sampling – Clean your fingertip with the alcohol swab and use the lancet to obtain a small drop of blood.
- Perform test – Using the pipette, apply the blood to the test cassette and add the buffer solution.
- Wait for the result – Let the test develop for 10 to 15 minutes and then read the result.
It is important to follow the instructions carefully to get a reliable result.
How do you interpret the test results?
- Negative result: no syphilis antibodies were detected. This usually means that no infection is present. However, with a recent exposure, the test may not yet detect antibodies. In that case, retesting after a few weeks is advised.
- Positive result: syphilis antibodies were detected. This means that an active or previous syphilis infection may be present. A positive self-test should always be confirmed with a blood test at a doctor’s office.
When should you get tested?
A syphilis test is recommended if you:
- Has had unprotected sexual contact.
- Received a warning from a (former) partner about an STI.
- Has symptoms such as painless sores, skin rash or swollen lymph nodes.
The incubation period for syphilis is on average 4 weeks. This means that for a test to give a reliable result, it must have been at least 4 weeks since the last risky sexual contact.
How reliable is a syphilis test?
A syphilis self-test usually has a sensitivity of about 82.93% and a specificity of 98.47%, meaning that the test gives a good indication, but should always be confirmed by a doctor in case of a positive result.
Conclusion
A syphilis test works by detecting antibodies in the blood. This can be done in a laboratory or with a self-test. Performing the test correctly is essential for a reliable result. In case of a positive result or persistent symptoms, it is always recommended to consult a doctor.
Syfilis test
€19.99
