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Syphilis
Also known as: VDRL, RPR, FTA, Darkfield microscopy
Formal name: Syphilis detection test
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The Test Sample
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What is being tested?The test is looking for evidence of Treponema pallidum, the bacterium that causes syphilis. Syphilis is a common sexually transmitted disease. It is easily treated but can cause severe health problems if left untreated.
How is the sample collected for testing?There are several different screening methods and tests; therefore, different samples are needed.
- For new infections, your doctor may take a scraping from a chancre (sore) on the affected area (the cervix, penis, anus, or throat).
- Your doctor may draw blood from a vein in your arm for an additional test.
- If you have late or latent stages of the disease, your doctor will order a spinal tap to check for infection of the central nervous system.
NOTE: If undergoing medical tests makes you or someone you care for anxious, embarrassed, or even difficult to manage, you might consider reading one or more of the following articles: Coping with Test Pain, Discomfort, and Anxiety, Tips on Blood Testing, Tips to Help Children through Their Medical Tests, and Tips to Help the Elderly through Their Medical Tests.
Another article, Follow That Sample, provides a glimpse at the collection and processing of a blood sample and throat culture.
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This article was last reviewed on
August 28, 2006.
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