Syphilis is a common bacterial sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by the bacteria T. Pallidum (Treponema Pallidum). The disease can be cured with antibiotics if identified during the early stages, however, it can become more difficult to treat as time goes on. This type of treponema-specific syphilis testing differs from RPR (rapid plasma reagin) testing in that it looks for biomarkers released from cells when damaged by syphilis, and not for the presence of antibodies to syphilis like the RPR tests. 

If you have not been tested for syphilis yet, it is recommended to test using the RPR testing method first. This test alone can determine if you have syphilis or not, but unlike RPR syphilis tests, it cannot determine if the person has a current infection or previously had syphilis. Because of this limitation, the best use of this test is generally to confirm a positive syphilis diagnosis from an RPR test. 

The recommended minimum window period for this syphilis test method is:

• Syphilis - 3-6 weeks post potential exposure.

Symptoms of syphilis usually occur in stages. Stage 1 and 2 heal on there own after a time, but if left untreated stage 3 can be deadly:

STAGE 1

• One or more sores/painless ulcers on genitals or in/around the mouth

STAGE 2

• A "copper penny" rash on the soles of the feet and the palms of the hands
• Warts in the groin
• Patches in the mouth that are white

STAGE 3

• Severe heart, brain and nerve problems that may lead to paralysis, dementia, blindness, impotence, deafness and/or death