Serologic detection of Treponema pallidum subspecies pallidum (syphilis)
Microbiology
Serology
○ Serum
○ CSF
Other Information
○ Syphilis serology is indicated for routine diagnosis of suspected infections and treatment monitoring. For initial syphilis testing on newborns, it is recommended that maternal serum also be submitted. ○ Testing for syphilis serology on CSF samples is indicated for diagnosis and monitoring of treatment of neurosyphilis. It is recommended to be performed on all patients with HIV and syphilis and on infants with suspected congenital syphilis.
○ Decontaminate skin with 70% alcohol followed by iodine or chlorhexidine, collect at least 5 mL of blood CSF: ○ Decontaminate skin, perform lumbar puncture to collect at least 1 mL of CSF in sterile container
Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery
In-house PHL Confirmation (non-Donor)
○ Up to 3 days for non reactive specimens; up to 6 days for reactive specimens ○ CSF: up to 5 days
416-586-4800 extension 4632
NO
○ Label specimen container. Place specimens in biohazard bag and seal.
○ Specimens should be transported to the UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory at room temperature (20-25˚C) ASAP after collection. If a delay of more than 24h is expected, store specimen at refrigeration temperature (2-8˚C).
○ UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory will perform the first treponemal test in house and will refer specimen to the Public Health Ontario Laboratory for testing if positive.