Syphilis Testing Singapore | HIV PEP
Syphilis Testing in Singapore: Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by a bacterial infection. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications in men and women.
Diagnosis of syphilis
For both men and women, the diagnosis of syphilis involves internal and external examination of genitals and anus. A doctor may perform an internal examination of the vagina for women and an examination of the penis and urethral opening in men. For both sexes, a doctor will also examine the rectum and anus. If sores are found, the doctor will use a cotton swab to collect fluid samples from the sores. These can be examined under a microscope to look for the bacteria.
Syphilis can also be diagnosed by a blood test. Often, screening is done for several sexually transmitted diseases. Results are available within a week. Your doctor may ask for a second round of tests (for antibodies to syphilis) to confirm the infection. If you are in the primary or secondary stages of syphilis, no other tests are needed.
If you are in the tertiary stage, or your doctor suspects other serious complications such as cardiovascular syphilis or syphilitic brain damage, other tests may be ordered, including a chest X-ray, an echocardiogram, or a CT or MRI scan.