Syphilis (Treponema Pallidum Antibody)

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infectious (STI) disease caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. This bacterium causes infection when it gets into broken skin or mucus membranes, usually of the genitals. Syphilis is most often transmitted through sexual contact, although it also can be transmitted in other ways. 

Syphilis occurs worldwide, most commonly in urban areas. The number of cases is rising fastest in men who have sex with men (MSM). Young adults ages 20 to 35 are the highest-risk population. Because people may be unaware that they are infected with syphilis, many states require tests for syphilis before marriage. All pregnant women who receive prenatal care should be screened for syphilis to prevent the infection from passing to their newborn (congenital syphilis). 

Syphilis has three stages: 

• Primary syphilis 
• Secondary syphilis 
• Tertiary syphilis (the late phase of the illness)  

Syphilis tests are used to screen for and diagnose syphilis. Syphilis is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). It is a bacterial infection that spreads through vaginal, oral, or anal sexual contact with someone who has the infection. It can also pass from a pregnant person to their baby. 

Syphilis usually develops in stages. Each stage has different signs and symptoms that can last for weeks, months, or even years. In the beginning, the signs and symptoms may be mild. A person could have syphilis and not know it and could pass the infection to someone else. 

Syphilis is easiest to cure in the early stages of infection. If it’s not treated and develops to a late stage, it can cause permanent damage to a patient’s health. Treatment can still help, but it will not reverse the damage. In rare cases, untreated syphilis can even cause death. 

Syphilis tests can help diagnose the infection in the early stages, when it’s easiest to cure. Finding and treating the infection early can also prevent the spread of syphilis to others.