Syphilis Serology Flashcards
what causes syphilis
treponema pallidum
how is syphilis transmitted
sexual contact
trans-placenta/during birth
blood transfusions
what are the stages of syphilis
Primary Secondary Early latent Late latent Tertiary
what is seen in the primary stage
chancre lesion
90% are genital
Non-tender local lymphadenopathy
what is seen in the secondary stage
Macular/pustular rash on palms + soles
lesions on mucous membranes
patchy alopecia
generalised lymphadenopathy
is the latent stage infectious?
NO
what is late stage syphilis
cardiovascular + neuro complications years after primary infection
Investigation of syphilis
swab of lesions for PCR
Serology- T.Pallidum antibodies
1st line test for syphilis
IgM + IgG ELISA
2nd line test if 1st line is positive
IgM ELISA
VDRL
TPPA
treatment of early syphilis
2.4 million units benzathine penicillin for 1 week
treatment of late syphilis
2.4 million units benzathine penicillin for 3 weeks
treatment if penicillin allergic
doxycycline 100mg oral + prednisolone 40-60mg
what result would the an unaffected person have for the following test:
IgG, IgM, TPPA, VDRL
IgG -VE
IgM -VE
TPPA -VE
VDRL -VE
What results would a person with early syphilis have for the following test:
IgG, IgM, TPPA, VDRL
IgM +VE
IgG + VE
TPPA +VE
VDRL +VE
