Do I need a Syphilis test?

Do you need a syphilis test? Whether you're being proactive about sexual health, experiencing unusual symptoms, or simply want peace of mind, understanding your syphilis status is an important part of looking after yourself.

A syphilis test detects antibodies or bacteria in your blood that indicate whether you've been exposed to the infection caused by Treponema pallidum, and whether it may currently be active in your body.

Knowing your status can help you make informed decisions about your health and relationships. Early detection is associated with better outcomes and simpler treatment options. Including syphilis screening as part of your regular health checks supports long-term wellbeing and helps protect those around you — it's a straightforward step that empowers you to take control of your sexual health.

Syphilis — Key Facts
MeasuresA sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum
CategorySexual Health
Unitpositive / negative
Tested inListen Health Standard & Premium membership (100+ biomarkers)
Reviewed byDr Jamie Deans, MBChB

What is it?

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a bacterium called Treponema pallidum. If it is not treated, it can develop in stages over time.

Syphilis is diagnosed using blood tests. Some tests show whether you have ever been exposed to the infection, while others help indicate whether the infection is currently active. Because certain antibodies stay positive for life, test results are interpreted together to understand the full picture.

Syphilis is treatable, most commonly with penicillin. The type and length of treatment depend on the stage of infection. Treating syphilis early is important to prevent long-term health problems and to reduce the risk of passing the infection to others.

Although syphilis is a well-understood and treatable infection, it remains a public health concern because symptoms can be subtle or absent. Testing and early treatment are key to protecting long-term health.

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References

  1. Workowski, K. A., Bachmann, L. H., Chan, P. A., et al. (2021). Sexually transmitted infections treatment guidelines, 2021. MMWR Recommendations and Reports, 70(4), 1–187. https://doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.rr7004a1

  2. Alsuliman, T., Musiu, P., Stocker, N., et al. (2024). Sexually transmitted infections in the context of haematological malignancies. The Lancet Haematology, 11(10), e792–e802. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2352-3026(24)00210-2

  3. Peeling, R. W., Mabey, D., Chen, X. S., & Garcia, P. J. (2023). Syphilis. The Lancet, 402(10398), 336–346. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(22)02348-0

Frequently Asked Questions

Trichomoniasis

Gonorrhea

Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2

Follicle Stimulating Hormone

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Neutrophils

AHPRA Disclaimer: This information is general in nature and should not replace individual medical advice. Always discuss your test results and health concerns with a registered healthcare practitioner.