Syphilis (Syphilis/Lues/TPHA)

Syphilis TPHA (Treponema Pallidum Hemagglutination Assay), Titer is a serological test that detects specific antibodies (IgG and IgM) to Treponema pallidum — the bacterium that causes syphilis. The TPHA method is used to confirm the diagnosis after a positive screening test result (such as VDRL or RPR), as well as to determine the antibody titer, which helps the physician assess the stage of the disease and indirectly evaluate its activity.

The test is used for:

• Confirming infection after a positive screening.
• Diagnosing syphilis at any stage, including latent.
• Screening blood donors, sexual contacts, and patients with STI symptoms.
• Assessing the antibody titer — the higher the titer, the more likely the infection is active.

🕒 When antibodies and symptoms appear

Antibodies detected by TPHA usually appear 3–4 weeks after infection. Symptoms depend on the stage:

Primary syphilis (2–12 weeks after infection)

• Painless sore (chancre) at the site of infection — in the vagina, on the penis, in the anus, or in the mouth.
• Enlarged lymph nodes.

Secondary syphilis (weeks to months after infection)

• Rash over the body, especially on the palms and soles.
• Fever, fatigue, sore throat, headache.
• Hair loss on the scalp and body.
• Vision problems, eye inflammation.

Latent syphilis

• No symptoms, but the test remains positive.

Tertiary syphilis (years without treatment)

• Damage to the heart, blood vessels, brain, spinal cord, bones, and skin.

🔍 Understanding the results

• A positive TPHA result means the person has or had a syphilis infection.
• A high antibody titer more often indicates active disease, especially in the primary or secondary stage.
• TPHA remains positive in most people even after successful treatment, so it is not used to monitor treatment effectiveness.

⚠ What to do if the result is positive

• See a doctor as soon as possible to confirm the diagnosis and start treatment.
• Get tested for HIV and other STIs.
• Avoid sexual activity during treatment.
• Inform all sexual partners since the time of infection so they can be tested.
• Even without symptoms, ensure your regular partner and children are examined (to prevent congenital syphilis).

💊 Treatment

Syphilis is treated with antibiotics (usually penicillin) administered by a doctor. Follow-up examinations may be required after treatment. Avoid sexual activity during therapy to prevent reinfection. Always use condoms for protection in the future.

💡 Difference from the VDRL test:

VDRL is a non-treponemal test used for screening and monitoring treatment. TPHA is a treponemal test that confirms the presence of specific antibodies and is used for diagnosis, but not for monitoring treatment dynamics.