Syphilis Tests: How It Is Done

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How It Is Done

A syphilis test may be done on a sample of blood, sore, skin, or spinal fluid, depending on which type of test is done.

Sore or skin sample

A sample of fluid or tissue may be taken from an open sore (chancre) or from a rash that might be caused by syphilis.

• A fluid sample is obtained by gently pressing the chancre.
• Skin or mucous membrane samples may be obtained by gently rubbing a cotton-tipped swab over the area affected.

Blood sample

The health professional taking a sample of your blood will:

• Wrap an elastic band around your upper arm to stop the flow of blood. This makes the veins below the band larger so it is easier to put a needle into the vein.
• Clean the needle site with alcohol. Put the needle into the vein. More than one needle stick may be needed.
• Attach a tube to the needle to fill it with blood. Remove the band from your arm when enough blood is collected.
• Put a gauze pad or cotton ball over the needle site as the needle is removed.
• Put pressure on the site and then put on a bandage.

Spinal fluid sample

A spinal tap (lumbar puncture) is done to collect a spinal fluid sample for syphilis testing.

For a lumbar puncture, a thin needle is inserted into the spinal canal in the lower back area. After the needle is in place, a small amount of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is removed from the spinal canal. For more information, see the medical test Lumbar Puncture.

Last updated:	October 02, 2007
Author:	Kathe Gallagher, MSW
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Jeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH - Infectious Disease
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC