Syphilis Tests: Why It Is Done
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Why It Is Done
A test for syphilis is done to:
- Screen for syphilis or monitor treatment for a syphilis infection. Screening tests help your doctor look for a certain disease or condition before any symptoms appear. This increases the chance of finding the infection when it can be cured or treated to avoid long-term problems.
- Some states require the VDRL screening test before a couple can obtain a marriage license.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommend that all pregnant women be screened for syphilis early in pregnancy.
- Confirm that a syphilis infection is present.
A syphilis infection can spread through the bloodstream to all parts of the body. If not treated, syphilis can cause severe heart disease, brain damage, spinal cord damage, blindness, and death.
| 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 |
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